The Brazil national football team has secured its qualification for the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup.

Under the leadership of coach Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil defeated Paraguay 1-0 in the 16th match of the South American qualifiers held in São Paulo, Brazil, on the 11th (Korea time).

With this, Brazil, ranked third behind Argentina (35 points) and Ecuador (25 points), has confirmed its advancement to the finals regardless of the results of the remaining two matches. The South American qualifiers allow the top six teams to advance to the finals, and Brazil has pulled ahead with a seven-point lead over seventh-placed Venezuela (18 points).

On the 6th, Brazil drew 0-0 with Ecuador. However, with this victory, Brazil extended its record of qualifying for the World Cup 23 times in a row, having participated in every tournament since the inaugural event in 1930.

Brazil is the most successful nation in World Cup history, with five titles. However, it suffered a quarterfinal knockout by Croatia in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which tarnished its reputation. Brazil aims to win the championship for the first time in 24 years since its triumph in the 2002 Korea-Japan tournament during this North and Central America World Cup.

The opening goal scored by Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid) in the 44th minute of the first half became the winning goal. A pass from Matheus Cunha found Vinícius, who was making a run toward the center.

In particular, coach Ancelotti celebrated his maiden victory with the Brazil national team in just two matches. Despite drawing without scoring in his debut match against Ecuador, Ancelotti was able to smile thanks to his former protégé from Real Madrid.

Before the match against Ecuador, Ancelotti commented on Vinícius, saying, "He is doing very well right now. He has recovered from his ankle injury and is as motivated as ever."

He continued, "Obviously, we expect him to perform at his best, and I believe he will. I'm not sure if he has shown his best form for the national team so far, but he will have plenty of time to do so in the future."

Ancelotti also expressed his expectations, stating, "Vinícius will show his best performances for the national team, just as he did at Real Madrid. He is an absolutely crucial player for us. There is no debate about that."

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