Carlo Ancelotti celebrates his first victory as Brazil coach. © APA/afp / NELSON ALMEIDA

First victory on his birthday: Ancelotti leads Brazil to the World Cup

Brazil has secured direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a win in its second competitive match under coach Carlo Ancelotti.

June 11, 2025

From: dpa

After their 1-0 victory against Paraguay, the Seleção moved up to third place in the South American World Cup qualifying table with two games remaining. This means Brazil can no longer be displaced from one of the top six spots that qualify for direct participation. The seventh-placed team will face a relegation play-off.

After the meager 0-0 draw against Ecuador in the last match, Ancelotti had promised more attacking drive for the upcoming matches – and the Seleção delivered at the Neo Química Arena in the Brazilian metropolis of São Paulo. Paraguay was put under intense pressure from the start.

Shortly before halftime, Vinícius Júnior gave Brazil a 1-0 lead after a Matheus Cunha cross in the penalty area – the only goal of the night and also the first under the new national coach. The Real Madrid pro scored under the very coach who had shaped him in Madrid and who celebrated his 66th birthday on the day of the match.

Vinícius Júnior shot the Brazilians to victory. © ANSA / ISAAC FONTANA

"I'm very happy with this result; it was necessary to win at home, also for our fans," said the goalscorer after the final whistle. "Now the coach has more time to work and see what we can improve."

Ecuador also qualifies for World Cup

In addition to Brazil and the previously qualified Argentinians, Ecuador also secured its ticket to the 0 World Cup after a 0-2026 draw against Peru. The final two qualifying matches are scheduled for September: Brazil will then play against Chile and finally face Bolivia.