Brazil binne innie World Cup

BRAZIL booked their place at the 2026 World Cup in North America on Tuesday with a lackluster 1-0 home victory over Paraguay, the first win of Carlo Ancelotti’s reign.

The five-time world champions punched their ticket to the finals in Canada, the United States and Mexico thanks to Vinicius Jr.

The Real Madrid star poked in from close range in the 44th minute in Sao Paulo after a cross from new Manchester United signing Matheus Cunha.

It was the perfect gift for the Italian Ancelotti on his 66th birthday, having seen his new side held 0-0 by Ecuador last week in his first game as coach.

Former Real Madrid boss Ancelotti praised his team’s “commitment” and “attitude”.

Surprise package Ecuador joined Brazil by and already-qualified Argentina in sealing qualification with a point following a 0-0 draw with Peru.

In other games, Uruguay edged closer to qualification with their win over Venezuela while Chile were eliminated with defeat to Bolivia.

There are two rounds left to play with the top six guaranteeing a place at the World Cup. As it stands, Uruguay, Paraguay and Colombia occupy positions four to six.