Brazil rounded off their final home fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a commanding 3-0 win over Chile at the Maracanã.
The Selecão, already assured of their place in North America, extended their dominance over La Roja to six straight victories.
Although the hosts began with intent, early opportunities were squandered. Gabriel Magalhães forced a save with a close-range header, while Casemiro’s strike was chalked off for offside.
Chile briefly grew into the contest, but Brazil’s relentless pressure kept them on the back foot. Ben Brereton Díaz did manage to slip behind the defence, only for Marquinhos to recover and block his effort, though the flag was already raised.
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Estevão breakthrough sparks Brazil’s momentum
After sustained pressure, Brazil finally struck in the 38th minute. Teenage sensation Estevão acrobatically converted after Lawrence Vigouroux parried Raphinha’s shot into the air, giving the hosts a deserved lead.
Chile’s resistance wavered further when Guillermo Maripán was initially sent off for a late challenge on Wesley, later downgraded to a booking. Moments before halftime, Paulo Díaz came close with a powerful header, but Alisson stood firm.
The second half mirrored the first, with Brazil probing patiently while Chile threw bodies in the way. Gabriel Martinelli tested Vigouroux again, but it was the Selecão’s substitutes who delivered the knockout blows. Luiz Henrique danced past defenders to set up Lucas Paquetá for a fine headed goal, before Bruno Guimarães capitalised on Henrique’s rebounded effort to seal a dominant display.
Ancelotti’s unbeaten start continues
The victory means Carlo Ancelotti has now overseen three games without defeat – or concession – since taking charge of Brazil. His side remain firmly on track to finish behind leaders Argentina, needing just a draw against Bolivia to secure a top-four place.
Meanwhile, Chile’s misery deepened as they stretched their goalless run to five matches. With Uruguay next, Nicolás Córdova’s men must find inspiration quickly to avoid finishing bottom of the group.
Tags: Estevão, Lucas Paquetá, Bruno Guimarães, Brazil, Chile, Selecão, 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, #2026WCQ, Carlo Ancelotti, Nicolás Córdova, Lawrence Vigouroux, Raphinha.
