Paqueta goal sends Brazil to 2022 FIFA World Cup

Brazil midfielder Lucas Paqueta scored the game’s only goal as Brazil defeated Colombia 1-0 to book their place in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, making them the first country from South America to achieve the feat.

Brazil and Colombia squared off in a rematch of their meeting in the group stage of last summer’s Copa America, which Brazil won 2-1 thanks to second-half goals from Roberto Firmino and Casemiro.

Colombia were ready to spring an upset against the Selecao, and they set out to play a very physical style against the Brazilians. Brazil dominated possession, but could not really do much in attack against a spirited Colombia side. Colombia welcomed former Real Madrid and Everton star James Rodriguez for the first time in over a year, as he made a substitute appearance.

Brazil had to wait until after 72 minutes before they scored what turned out to be the match-winner. Marquinhos nipped a Colombia attack in the bud by intercepting a pass in midfield before sending a pass to Neymar, who touched the ball into the path of Olympique Lyonnais midfielder Paqueta, and the midfielder finished off the move with a first-time shot past David Ospina in the Colombian goal.

Brazil have played 12 matches in qualifying so far and have won 11 and drawn just once, scoring 27 goals and conceding only four. The Selecao have become the third team to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup after Germany and Denmark.

Brazil will now turn their attention towards a match against their biggest rivals Argentina in a bid to maintain their unbeaten qualifying record.