A late strike from Vinícius Júnior secured Brazil’s 2-1 victory over Colombia in World Cup qualifying on Thursday, sparing his team and fans from further disappointment.
A draw would have dropped Brazil to sixth in the South American standings, but instead, they climbed to second behind Argentina thanks to Vinícius Júnior’s long-range goal.
With the top six teams earning direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, the win eased some pressure on Brazil coach Dorival Júnior ahead of their upcoming clash with Argentina. The five-time champions have never failed to qualify for a World Cup.
Argentina, led by Lionel Scaloni, sits at the top with 25 points from 12 matches, four points ahead of Brazil (21 points from 13 games), and is on the verge of securing its place in the tournament.
Argentina will face Uruguay on Friday without Lionel Messi, just days before their highly anticipated match against Brazil. The last time the two rivals met, Argentina claimed a 1-0 win at the Maracanã in 2023.
Brazil’s Bruno Guimarães and Gabriel Magalhães received yellow cards against Colombia, ruling them out of Tuesday’s match in Buenos Aires. Meanwhile, Colombia will take on Paraguay the same day.
Brazil showed more energy than in recent games, displaying speed, technical skill, and an early goal that hinted at a well-balanced lineup under Dorival Júnior. However, a defensive lapse nearly cost them until Vinícius Júnior’s moment of brilliance.
Raphinha opened the scoring in the sixth minute from the penalty spot after Vinícius Júnior was fouled in the box. Brazil maintained control but failed to push for a second goal before 70,000 fans.
Colombia equalized in the 41st minute when Luis Díaz fired a low shot after substitute Joelinton, who replaced an injured Gerson, lost possession near Brazil’s penalty area.
Both teams struggled with finishing in the second half until Vinícius Júnior’s powerful long-range strike deflected off Jefferson Lerma and found the net past goalkeeper Camilo Vargas.
“This was very important, we deserved to win. I deserved this goal too for all I have worked for,” Vinicius Júnior said of his first goal in this qualifying tournament. “It was a bit of relief, a bit of happiness.”
