Brazil 3-0 Chile: Selecao Cruise Past Chile in FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
RIO DE JANEIRO – Brazil delivered a commanding performance at the Maracanã Stadium on Thursday, comfortably defeating Chile 3-0 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 South American qualifier. Under manager Carlo Ancelotti, the Seleção secured back-to-back wins, while Chile’s qualifying hopes took another hit.
Goals and Key Moments
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38’ – Estevão scores a stunning overhead kick
After a flurry of Brazilian attacks, a rebounded shot fell perfectly for Estevão, who acrobatically finished to give Brazil a 1-0 lead. -
45’ – Chile’s Maripán sees red
Chile were reduced to ten men after Guillermo Maripán received a straight red for a dangerous challenge on Wesley. The decision was upheld after a VAR check. -
72’ – Paquetá heads home Brazil’s second
A rapid counter saw Henrique deliver a perfect chip into the box. Lucas Paquetá charged in to meet it with a powerful header, doubling Brazil’s lead. -
76’ – Guimarães seals it
After linking up brilliantly with Henrique, Bruno Guimarães tapped in the rebound from Henrique’s shot that was pushed onto the bar, making it 3-0.
🇧🇷 Brazil’s Lineup Shines Without Neymar
Despite the absence of Neymar, Brazil looked fluid in attack. Youngsters like Estevão and João Pedro impressed with energy and creativity, while veterans Casemiro, Raphinha, and Marquinhos provided experience and leadership.
Goalkeeper Akisson had little to do but remained sharp during rare Chilean advances. The defensive pairing of Marquinhos and Gabriel neutralized Chile’s few chances.
🇨🇱 Chile’s Struggles Continue
Chile were unable to cope with Brazil’s high press and dynamic play. Despite a few promising moments, especially in the first half, the red card before halftime severely limited their ability to recover.
Substitutions and tactical changes failed to make a significant impact as Brazil controlled possession and dictated the tempo for most of the game.
Final Score: Brazil 3-0 Chile
Goals:
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Estevão (38’)
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Paquetá (72’)
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Guimarães (76’)
Red Card:
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Maripán (Chile, 45’)
Venue: Maracanã Stadium, Rio de Janeiro
With this win, Brazil remains unbeaten in the qualifiers and continues to build momentum under Carlo Ancelotti. For Chile, the road to qualification becomes steeper as they fall behind in the South American standings.
What’s Next?
Brazil’s next fixtures will be closely watched as Ancelotti continues to fine-tune the squad for the 2026 World Cup. Young stars are stepping up, and Brazil appears to be building a formidable team — even without Neymar on the pitch.
