Vinicius Junior Sets Brazil’s Coffee Growers Ablaze with Qualifying Victory

Brazil secured their first victory in three matches, edging closer to solidifying their position for next year’s FIFA World Cup with a 2-1 triumph over Colombia in Brasilia.

The Brazilian side began strongly, with Vinicius Junior earning a penalty just four minutes into the game. Raphinha confidently converted the spot kick, placing it perfectly into the bottom-left corner to give Brazil the early lead.

Rodrygo nearly extended the Selecao’s advantage before the 15-minute mark. The Real Madrid winger weaved into the box from the right and struck a shot that went just wide of the post.

After a relatively uneventful first half, it seemed Brazil would head into halftime with their slender lead. However, Colombia struck back in the 41st minute through a well-worked goal featuring an all-Merseyside connection.

Former Everton player James Rodriguez intercepted the ball in the Brazilian half and set up Luis Diaz in the box. The Liverpool forward unleashed a shot that found the far corner, beating Reds teammate Alisson and ensuring the teams went into the break level.

Upon resumption, Brazil created the first opportunity, as Raphinha unleashed a shot from distance. Camilo Vargas made the save but was forced to react quickly to thwart Vinicius on the follow-up.

Colombia believed they had taken the lead shortly after the hour mark when Alisson struggled at a set piece, and the ball appeared to cross the line. However, the goal was disallowed for offside.

The Brazilian keeper subsequently received treatment after a collision with Davinson Sanchez while contesting another set piece, leading to a significant stoppage and the Colombian defender being stretchered off the field.

With Alisson also forced to leave the pitch, the dynamic of the match shifted, and both teams struggled to break the deadlock as time ran down.

Nevertheless, Brazil made their mark during the ten minutes of added time, as Vinicius sent the fans into a frenzy in the 99th minute. His deflected long-range shot found its way into the net, securing the victory.

This win elevates Brazil to second place in the qualifying standings, while Colombia remains in sixth, six points clear of Bolivia in the playoff position.