World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Brazil Held to a Draw by Uruguay

The year 2024 continues to haunt Brazil's national team, with yet another underwhelming result adding to their recent woes. Playing at home, Dorival Júnior's side failed to secure a victory against a resilient Uruguay, settling for a 1-1 draw. This result leaves Brazil in fifth place in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Dominance Without End Product

Despite dominating possession in the first half, Brazil struggled to create meaningful chances, registering just one shot on target before the break. Uruguay adjusted their approach during halftime, and it paid off just ten minutes into the second half. Federico Valverde, who had been lively throughout, capitalized on space near the edge of the penalty area and drilling a low shot into the bottom corner to give Uruguay the lead.

Brazil responded quickly, leveling the score just seven minutes later. A poor clearance from the Uruguayan defense following a cross from the left fell to Gerson, who unleashed a powerful volley from the edge of the box to make it 1-1.

Standings and Context

Uruguay remains in second place, trailing leaders Argentina by five points. Brazil’s struggles see them languishing in fifth, a far cry from their usual dominance in South America.

The South American qualifiers feature ten teams, with the top six earning direct qualification for the World Cup. The pressure is mounting on Brazil as they look to secure their spot in the tournament.

Brazil 1-1 Uruguay
Scorers: Federico Valverde 55’ (0-1). Gerson 62’ (1-1).

Brazil Lineup:
Éderson, Abner (Martinelli 58’), Gabriel, Marquinhos, Danilo, Bruno Guimarães (André 86’), Gerson (Lucas Paquetá 86’), Raphinha, Sávio (Estevão 73’), Vinícius Júnior, Igor Jesus (Luís Henrique 58’).

Uruguay Lineup:
Rochet, Saracchi, Olivera, Giménez, Varela, Bentancur, Ugarte, Valverde, Araújo (Olivera 81’), Pellistri (Rodríguez 66’), Núñez (Aguirre 46’).

Yellow Cards:
Uruguay: Bentancur (41’), Varela (83’)
Brazil: Raphinha (69’), Lucas Paquetá (89’), Gabriel (90+3’)