Real Madrid forward Rodrygo secured Brazil’s much-needed 1-0 victory over Ecuador on Friday, helping the five-time World Cup champions end a three-match losing streak in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.
Rodrygo, 23, made the decisive impact with a goal in the 30th minute. Rodrygo’s shot from outside the box deflected off an Ecuadorian defender and struck the right post, scoring the only goal of the match.
Brazil had struggled in their recent qualifiers, suffering losses to Uruguay, Colombia, and Argentina, which left them in a precarious position. The win over Ecuador propels Brazil into fourth place in the standings with 10 points, improving their chances of securing a direct spot for the World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Ecuador’s unbeaten streak of five games came to an end with this loss, and they remain in sixth place with eight points, the final direct qualification spot from South America.
In other matches, Uruguay, managed by Marcelo Bielsa, drew 0-0 with Paraguay at home. The game marked the end of international duties for veteran striker Luis Suárez, who announced his retirement from the national team after the match. Suárez, who scored 69 goals for Uruguay, exits with his team in second place with 14 points, four points behind leaders Argentina.
Colombia, undefeated in their campaign, drew 1-1 with Peru in Lima. Liverpool striker Luis Díaz scored the equalizer for Colombia in the 81st minute after Alexander Callens had given Peru the lead in the 67th minute. With three wins and four draws, Colombia holds third place in the standings, while Peru remains at the bottom with just three points.
The South American qualifiers continue to be fiercely competitive as teams vie for a place in the 2026 World Cup.
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