Brazil sealed their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a narrow 1-0 victory over Paraguay in São Paulo, marking Carlo Ancelotti’s first win as coach.

Vinicius Jr. scored the decisive goal just before halftime, converting a low cross from new Manchester United signing Matheus Cunha, who had earlier missed a clear chance.

The result, combined with Uruguay’s win over Venezuela, confirmed Brazil’s top-six finish in South American qualifiers.

Ancelotti praised his players’ commitment and hinted at a broad selection pool of 70 names for next summer, including injured star Neymar.

Paraguay, who needed just a point to qualify, must now wait, while Ecuador also secured a spot with a draw in Peru.

Uruguay moved closer to qualification with a 2-0 win over Venezuela, and Argentina, already qualified, drew 1-1 with Colombia.

Meanwhile, Bolivia’s 2-0 win eliminated Chile, whose decline continues with a third straight World Cup miss.