Vinicius Junior scored in the first half as five-time world champion Brazil secured a spot at next year's FIFA World Cup with a 1-0 home win over Paraguay in its qualifier.The result marked new manager Carlo Ancelotti's first victory since taking charge late last month and leaves Brazil third in the South American standings with 25 points, one ahead of fifth-placed Paraguay, with two matches remaining. "
We're very happy to have qualified for the World Cup, which was our objective," Vinicius told TV Globo after the match on Tuesday.
"Tonight wasn't one of our best games but the most important thing in these qualifiers is to get over the line and do what's needed to reach the World Cup. Now it's time to celebrate."
The host took the lead on the stroke of halftime when Vinicius slid home from inside the six-yard box after Matheus Cunha's cross from the right side of the penalty area.
Brazil dominated for large periods at Sao Paulo's Corinthians Arena but struggled to break down Paraguay's disciplined defensive block.The visitor offered little in attack and its best chance of the first half was a speculative effort by Junior Alonso from 15 yards.
Brazil went close to doubling its lead just before the hour through Bruno Guimaraes, whose deft chip was headed off the line by Juan Caceres.
Dynamo Moscow right-back Caceres then put Brazil's defense under pressure with a long throw to the goalmouth, where the ball fell to Alonso, whose powerful header flew just over the bar. But there were few other scoring chances as both teams appeared to prioritize defense over offensive ambition.
The home side had 73% of possession but only four shots on target while Paraguay forced just one save from Brazil goalkeeper Alisson.Brazil will meet Chile and Bolivia in its final two qualifiers in September while Paraguay, which needs only one more point to qualify, faces Ecuador and Peru.(UNI/XINHUA)
