Vinícius scores Late Winner as Brazil edge Colombia

A stoppage-time goal from Vinícius Jr. earned Brazil a crucial 2-1 victory over Colombia in their South American World Cup qualifier on Thursday in Brasilia. The late winner rescued Brazil from what seemed destined to be a third consecutive 1-1 draw and keeps them firmly in contention for automatic qualification.

The victory lifts Brazil to second place in the South American qualifying standings with 21 points, four behind leaders Argentina and one ahead of Uruguay (both of whom have a game in hand and play each other on Friday). The top six teams qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, with the seventh-placed team entering a playoff.

Brazil started strongly, taking the lead within six minutes. Raphinha converted a penalty after Vinícius Jr. was fouled inside the box by Daniel Munoz.

However, Brazil struggled to build on their early advantage. Aside from a Rodrygo shot that went wide in the 13th minute, they created few clear-cut opportunities. Colombia, meanwhile, threatened on the counter-attack, exposing Brazil’s defense on several occasions.

The visitors equalized in the 40th minute. James Rodriguez capitalized on a lapse in concentration from Newcastle midfielder Joelinton, winning possession on the edge of the box and finding Luis Diaz, who fired into the bottom right corner.

Brazil emerged with renewed purpose in the second half. Vinícius Jr. forced a fine save from Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas with an early strike. However, as the match wore on, Brazil’s frustration grew as they missed a series of chances.

Manager Dorival Jr., who took charge a year ago, cut a increasingly forlorn figure on the sidelines. However, his despair turned to joy in the dying moments. Vinícius Jr. unleashed a curling strike from the edge of the box that evaded Vargas and found the back of the net, securing a vital three points for Brazil.

Brazil will now travel to face rivals Argentina on Tuesday. They will be without Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes and Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, who are both suspended after receiving yellow cards against Colombia. The match highlighted both Brazil’s attacking potential and their occasional defensive vulnerabilities.