In a decisive moment, Brazil returned to winning ways thanks to a crucial goal from Rodrygo. His solitary strike on Saturday, September 7, secured a 1-0 victory over Ecuador. This win marks Brazil’s first triumph in four matches of the South American World Cup qualifiers, bringing a significant boost to the five-time world champions.
In the match, held in the morning of September 7 (Bangladesh time), Brazil defeated Ecuador 1-0 in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Brazil had a promising opportunity in the third minute when Rodrygo’s free kick was headed off target by Luis Aihik from close range. The ball narrowly missed the crossbar. Nine minutes later, Rodrygo’s shot from outside the penalty area was saved by Ecuadorian goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez.
The breakthrough came in the 30th minute when Rodrygo found the net. Lucas Paquetá passed the ball to Rodrygo, who spun away from an Ecuadorian defender and took a shot. The ball deflected off an Ecuadorian defender and hit the crossbar before bouncing into the net.
Six minutes later, Brazil almost doubled their lead. Vinícius Júnior’s chip from outside the penalty area was narrowly missed by the rushing Rodrygo, with the ball going wide of the post.
In the fourth minute of added time, Ecuador nearly equalized. Kevin Rodríguez escaped the challenge of three Brazilian players and found Moisés Caicedo at the edge of the penalty area. Caicedo’s first shot was saved by Brazil’s goalkeeper Alisson, and Gabriel Magalhães cleared the follow-up effort off the goal line.
The second half saw an intense exchange of attacks, but neither team could capitalize on their opportunities. In the 65th minute, Vinícius Júnior showcased his speed and skill but was denied by Ecuadorian goalkeeper Galíndez. Eight minutes later, Vinícius had another chance but failed to convert under pressure from Galíndez.
Ecuador was awarded a dangerous free kick in stoppage time, but they were unable to make the most of the opportunity.
With this victory, Brazil has accumulated 10 points from 7 matches, moving up to fourth place in the qualifiers. Ecuador, with 8 points from the same number of matches, drops to sixth place.
