Brazil player ratings vs Paraguay: Clinical Vinicius Jr finds his Selecao swagger to secure 2026 World Cup qualification for Carlo Ancelotti's side
Brazil secured their place at the 2026 World Cup in emphatic fashion, dismantling Paraguay 1 -0 in a qualifier illuminated by the dazzling brilliance of Vinicius Junior. The Real Madrid star, often criticized for not translating his club form to the national team, silenced doubters with a commanding, match-winning performance that screamed confidence and delivered crucial goals.
Vinicius Junior (LW) – 9.5/10 (MOTM): This was the Vinicius Jr. Selecao fans craved. Explosive, decisive, and ice-cool in front of goal. He tormented Paraguay's right flank relentlessly, opening the scoring with a composed low finish after a brilliant Savio pass. His second, Brazil's third, was pure showmanship – a delightful Panenka penalty showcasing supreme confidence. Added an assist for Lucas Paqueta's spot-kick and was a constant menace. A true coming-of-age performance in the famous yellow shirt.
Lucas Paqueta (AM) – 8/10: Orchestrated play intelligently from the center. His vision and passing range unlocked Paraguay repeatedly. Won the penalty for Vinicius' Panenka and coolly converted his own penalty late on. A constant creative hub linking midfield and attack.
Bruno Guimaraes (CM) – 8/10: Dominated the midfield battle. His relentless energy, precise tackling, and progressive passing set the tempo. Broke up countless Paraguayan attacks and initiated Brazil's forward surges. A complete midfield display.
Savio (RW) – 7.5/10: Lively and direct on the right. His perfectly weighted pass set up Vinicius for the crucial opener. Showed good understanding with his teammates and worked hard defensively. A bright spark.
Defensive Foundation: Alisson (GK) – 7/10: Commanded his area well and made one crucial save before Paraguay's consolation. Reliable as ever.
Éder Militão (CB) – 7.5/10: A rock at the back. Strong in the air, composed on the ball, and snuffed out danger efficiently. His return bolsters the defence significantly.
Wendell (LB) – 7/10: Solid defensively and offered good width going forward. Kept his flank secure.
Others:
Rodrygo (CF - 7/10) worked tirelessly and linked play well, though finishing eluded him. João Gomes (CM - 7/10) provided tenacious midfield support alongside Guimaraes. Marquinhos (CB - 7/10) partnered Militão effectively. Substitutes Douglas Luiz (6.5/10) and Evanilson (6/10) added fresh legs.
While Paraguay grabbed a late consolation (Omar Alderete - stunning strike), it couldn't overshadow Brazil's dominance or the main narrative: Vinicius Jr. announcing his arrival as Brazil's talisman. His swagger, previously reserved for Madrid, was finally unleashed for the Selecao when it mattered most. This performance wasn't just about securing qualification; it was a statement of intent for the Ancelotti era. With Vinicius playing with this level of conviction, Brazil's World Cup dreams look significantly brighter. The stage is set, and the star has found his spark.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0