Brazil have sealed qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America with a 1-0 home victory over Paraguay on Tuesday, marking Carlo Ancelotti’s first win as head coach.

Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. scored the decisive goal just before halftime in São Paulo after a low cross from Manchester United’s Matheus Cunha, who had earlier missed a key chance.

Ancelotti, celebrating his 66th birthday, praised his team’s commitment despite a second-half slowdown against a solid Paraguayan side.

The win has lifted Brazil to third in the South American standings with 25 points from 16 games, enough to secure a top-six finish and automatic qualification.

Paraguay, who remain on the brink with 24 points, now need one more point to qualify.