World Cup qualifier: Paraguay stuns Brazil

Paraguay defeated Brazil 1-0, to keeps the team in contention for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Gustavo Alfaro’s side seemed to be missing out in the qualification spot, before the international break. They had five points from six games, winning one, drawing two and losing three games.

However, they seem to be turning the tide after holding Uruguay to a draw last week and then upsetting Brazil at Asuncion.

Diego Gomez’s first half strike secured the win for Paraguay against the five-time World Cup winner, despite their dominance. Gómez scored from the edge of the box, with the ball deflecting in off goalkeeper Alisson’s right post.

Brazil started the game with a trio of Real Madrid forwards; Vinicius Júnior, Endrick and Rodrygo, but failed to deliver.

Dorival Junior’s side struggled in attack, despite having the majority of possession. Defender Guilherme Arana came closest to breaking the deadlock, seeing his effort cleared off the line.

Dorival Júnior, who received his first defeat since taking over in January, remained calm after the game. He assured that his team will be in the next World Cup final.

Brazil has suffered their fourth defeat from their last five qualifiers, sitting on fifth position. The Samba boys accumulated ten points from eight games, winning just three and drawing one.

Following a poor Copa America campaign and a disappointing start to World Cup qualifiers, Dorival Junior’s side will need to find their rhythm to win games and impress on the attacks especially.

Brazil will play their next qualifiers in October, away against Chile and at home with Peru.