Vinícius Júnior’s late goal helped his team and millions of supporters avoid more heartache as Brazil defeated Colombia 2-1 in World Cup qualification on Thursday.
Brazil would have fallen to sixth place in the South American rankings with a draw. Instead, Vinicius Júnior’s long-range goal put Brazil in second place behind Argentina.

The win relieved some pressure on Brazil coach Dorival Júnior ahead of next week’s match against Argentina since the top six teams are guaranteed seats at the World Cup in Canada, the United States, and Mexico next year. The five-time winners have never been absent from a World Cup.
With 25 points from 12 games, four more than Brazil (21 points from 13 games), Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina team is certain to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Although Argentina is supposed to play Brazil four days later, Lionel Messi won’t be on the team that goes to Uruguay on Friday. The last time the two South American powerhouses met, Argentina won 1-0 at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro in 2023.
Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimarães and defender Gabriel Magalhães were booked against Colombia and will miss the match in Buenos Aires on Tuesday. Colombia will play host to Paraguay on the same day.

Brazil looked more motivated than in previous games, displaying pace, talent, and an early goal from the penalty spot, indicating that coach Dorival Júnior had selected a starting team that would get the job done.
The hosts in Brasilia were in danger after a defensive blunder, but Vinicius Júnior’s brilliant moment saved the day.
Raphinha scored in the sixth minute after Vinicius Júnior was fouled in the penalty box. After that, Brazil kept possession but didn’t put on real pressure to add a second in front of 70,000 fans.

Luis Díaz’s cross gave Colombia the equaliser in the 41st minute when Joelinton, the replacement who took Gerson’s place due to injury, misplaced the ball near the edge of Brazil’s box.
In the second half, both teams had trouble with precision until Vinicius Júnior’s long-range attempt past goalkeeper Camilo Vargas after deflecting off Jefferson Lerma.

This was crucial; we deserved victory. 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.”