After Philippe Coutinho scored the opening goal for Brazil it was Neymar’s solo dazzling goal that took the Brazil through the qualifier. The five-time FIFA World Cup champions qualified with eight straight victories. On Tuesday, as Argentina heightened its risk of missing a spot at Russia 2018, the resurgent Brazil squad made a wonderful start for their world cup journey.
The atmosphere in Sao Paulo was party-like with another of Brazil’s master-class win. The 44,000 fans were overwhelmed with the three goals and Brazil’s qualification for the coming world cup. This means that the team can start strategizing their world cup journey with one year to go. It was the Brazilian effort at 33, 63 and 85 minute that led the team to next round.
So much was happening yesterday when the five-time World Champions had a 3-0 victory over 7th place Paraguay in Sao Paulo. My favorite team has moved with 33 points in 14 matches in the South American qualifying group. It was the loss of third-place Uruguay to Peru (2-1) that led Brazil ease pass the round. With just four matches remaining, Argentina is in deep trouble after suspension of their star Lionel Messi. The Argentina coach Edgardo Bauza is in pressure as they have just 22 points from six wins and four draws.
The South American group is interesting to watch as Argentina is struggling, Colombia registered their first win in Quito in 20 years with second spot in qualifying with 24 points and Ecuador dropped out of the top five for the first time. On the other hand, Chile beat Venezuela 3-1 in Santiago to climbed back to 4th spot with 23 points. The hope, to qualify for next World Cup, of Argentina lies on winning all the matches with good margin and an appeal to have Messi suspension shortened.