Rodrygo's Late Goal Secures Brazil's 1-0 Victory Over Ecuador in FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers
It took Brazil to 10 points from seven matches as it secured a third win of the qualifying campaign, but Dunga’s men are still languishing down in fourth place in the South American standings and eight adrift of leader Argentina.
Brazil 1-0 Ecuador Real Madrid forward Rodrygo was the match-winner for BrazilThe result did little to help boost their flagging campaign, but it at least provided a moment of happiness as they had struggled in World Cup qualifying so far — especially by its high standards.
Brazil was in sixth place on the South American qualifying table before Friday’s victory and Rodrygo 30th-minute deflected strike ensured all three points against Colombia.
The five-time world champion climbed to fourth on 10 points from seven qualifiers with its third win of the campaign but is eight behind leader Argentina.
South American qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico would likely guarantee at least six places from a 48-team lineup. The South American team that finishes in 7th place takes part at an inter-confederation play-off.
It has been a torrid few years for Brazil at major tournaments, with the 2022 World Cup ending at the quarter-final stage and their latest Copa America campaign halted in the last eight this summer.
That fluency has been largely missing in recent outings and was again apparent against Ecuador on Friday when it had 65% of the ball but mustered only three shots on target.
The second half-hour was opened in another goal to generate way for Rodrygo once the Brazilian obtained from round about 25 lawns and released an endeavor on the edge of package. The Real Madrid forward’s goal deflection off Ecuador defender Willian Pacho then the post.