Brazil and Ecuador have officially booked their places at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing the second and third of South America’s six automatic qualification spots. Argentina, the reigning world champions, had already clinched their ticket in March.

Brazil edged Paraguay 1-0 in São Paulo, thanks to a decisive goal from Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior just before halftime. Meanwhile, Ecuador played out a goalless draw in Peru. Both teams now sit on 25 points with two matches remaining, making it mathematically impossible for seventh-placed Venezuela (18 points) to overtake them.

The remaining three automatic qualification spots are currently held by Uruguay (24 points), Paraguay (24), and Colombia (22), with the final two matches scheduled for September. Venezuela, still in contention, would earn a playoff spot by holding onto seventh place, granting them a shot at qualification through an intercontinental playoff.

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In what marked a winning home debut for Brazil’s new head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, Vinícius dedicated his goal to the Italian tactician, who previously managed him at Real Madrid. “It is for you,” the forward said as he celebrated.

Speaking after the match, Vinícius expressed his satisfaction: “I’m very happy with today’s result. We needed to win at home for our fans too and qualify for the World Cup, which was our goal.”

He also acknowledged there’s room for improvement: “Now [Ancelotti] will have more time to work, to see what he can improve. Today wasn’t one of our best games, but the important thing in qualifying is to win and prepare well for the World Cup.”

The victory not only secures Brazil’s place in North America for 2026 but also marks the beginning of a new chapter under Ancelotti, with fans optimistic about the road ahead.