Goals: Estevao (38'), Paqueta (72'), Bruno Guimaraes (76').

With Brazil having already secured their place in the 2026 World Cup, coach Carlo Ancelotti experimented with his lineup. The Italian manager rested Real Madrid's stars, Vinicius, Rodrygo, and Eder Militao, as well as superstar Neymar.

Estevao Willian scores with a bicycle kick in Brazil's 3-0 victory over Chile in their penultimate World Cup 2026 South American qualifier on 4/9. Photo: LAPRESSE

Despite the absences, Brazil, with players like Raphinha, Gabriel Martinelli, Estevao Willian, and Joao Pedro, dominated Chile. The home side controlled 64% of possession, registering 22 shots with 7 on target, while Chile managed only 3 off-target attempts.

In the 38th minute, a flowing move down the left flank saw Raphinha's shot deflected by goalkeeper Lawrence Vigouroux. The ball looped towards the goal, allowing Estevao to score with an acrobatic overhead kick. The 18-year-old Estevao recently joined Chelsea from Palmeiras for 37.7 million USD, with potential add-ons of 27 million USD based on performance.

Brazil continued to dominate in the second half, adding two more goals through close-range finishes from Lucas Paqueta and Bruno Guimaraes, sealing a 3-0 victory. This result marked Brazil's third consecutive clean sheet under Ancelotti. During the June FIFA international window, they drew 0-0 with Ecuador and beat Paraguay 1-0.

Paraguay celebrates their first World Cup qualification since 2010 in South Africa. Photo: Bleacher

South America has now confirmed its six direct qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup following yesterday's matches. Joining Argentina, Ecuador, and Brazil are Uruguay, Paraguay, and Colombia.

Paraguay qualified for their first World Cup in 16 years, while Colombia returns after missing out on Qatar 2022. Uruguay will be making their fourth consecutive World Cup appearance.

The seventh-placed team in the South American qualifiers will enter an intercontinental playoff. This spot is currently contested between Venezuela (18 points) and Bolivia (17 points). In the final round of matches, Bolivia will host Brazil, and Venezuela will face Colombia.

Hong Duy