Brazil edges Ecuador 1-0 amid South American World Cup qualifying

Brazil's victory secures a spot in this year's World Cup

Rodrygo nets the lone goal in a tense game

Brazil took a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ecuador on Thursday, January 27, 2023, in Quito, Ecuador, securing their place in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Real Madrid forward Rodrygo scored the only goal of the match in the 33rd minute. With this win, Brazil becomes the first South American team to qualify for this year's World Cup.

The match was played in front of a sold-out crowd at the Estadio Rodrigo Paz Delgado. Brazil controlled the possession and created more chances but struggled to break down Ecuador's defense. Rodrygo's goal was a moment of brilliance as he latched onto a pass from Neymar and fired a low shot into the bottom corner.

Brazil continued to press for more goals in the second half, but Ecuador defended resolutely and goalkeeper Hernan Galindez was in excellent form. Ecuador had a few chances of their own, but they could not find a way past Brazil's defense.

In the end, Brazil held on for a narrow 1-0 victory. The win gives Brazil 45 points from 16 matches, 18 points clear of second-place Argentina. Ecuador remains in third place with 26 points.

Brazil will now turn their attention to their remaining two World Cup qualifying matches against Paraguay and Chile. Ecuador will play their final two matches against Peru and Argentina.