RIO DE JANEIRO: Brazil made it two wins in a row under new coach Carlo Ancelotti with a commanding 3-0 victory over Chile in their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier at the Maracanã on Thursday night.
Goals from teenager Estevão, Lucas Paquetá, and Bruno Guimarães capped a performance that combined flair with efficiency, while Chile’s campaign suffered another blow after a disjointed display.
The Seleção dominated from the outset, pushing Chile back with waves of early pressure. Gabriel’s header forced a sharp save before Estevão lit up the stadium in the 38th minute, scoring with a spectacular overhead kick after a slick move involving Joao Pedro and Raphinha.
Chile’s task grew harder when defender Guillermo Maripán was sent off for a reckless challenge on Wesley just before halftime. La Roja almost equalised in stoppage time through Ben Brereton Díaz, whose header struck the post, but the chance went begging.
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Second-half control
After the break, Brazil tightened their grip, with Ancelotti’s substitutions making an immediate impact. In the 72nd minute, Henrique surged forward on a counter-attack before setting up Paquetá to head in moments after coming off the bench. Four minutes later, Henrique’s strike was pushed onto the bar, allowing Guimarães to slot home the rebound for Brazil’s third.
The hosts controlled possession in the closing stages, leaving goalkeeper Alisson largely untroubled as they closed out the match with composure.
Pressure mounts on Chile
For Chile, it was another night of frustration. Despite spells of possession, Eduardo Berizzo’s side rarely threatened and were undone by lapses in discipline and organisation. With qualification hopes slipping away, pressure is mounting on the coach.
For Brazil, the result offered further encouragement. Even in the absence of Neymar, Ancelotti’s side looked balanced and clinical, with rising stars like Estevão complementing established figures. The win consolidates their strong start to the qualifying campaign and underscores their credentials as favourites to top the group.
