They are fourth in the standings on 16 points after 10 games
Raphinha scored two penalties, one in each half, to lead Brazil to a 4-0 victory over Peru in Tuesday’s South American World Cup qualifiers. Following last week’s 2-1 comeback win against Chile, Brazil showed renewed energy, dominating possession throughout the match. Late goals from Andreas Pereira and Luiz Henrique added to an impressive overall performance.
Brazil, who had lost four of their previous five qualifiers before defeating Chile, now sit fourth in the standings with 16 points after 10 games, trailing third-placed Uruguay only on goal difference.
“We really needed this. Winning both games was crucial to getting back on track,” Raphinha told Brazilian television Globo. “We controlled both matches. It’s far from perfect, but we’re moving in the right direction.”
Raphinha opened the scoring in the 38th minute from the penalty spot after Peru’s Carlos Zambrano was penalized for handball. The Barcelona forward then doubled Brazil’s lead in the 54th minute with another penalty after Zambrano fouled Savinho in the box.
Andreas Pereira, who came on as a substitute, netted Brazil’s third with a spectacular volley in the 72nd minute, following a cross from Luiz Henrique. Two minutes later, Henrique sealed the win with a low shot from the edge of the box.
Meanwhile, Argentina remains at the top of the standings with 22 points after a 6-0 thrashing of Bolivia, while Colombia sits second with 19 points following a 4-0 win over last-placed Chile. In other matches, Paraguay edged out Venezuela 2-1, moving to sixth place on 13 points, level with fifth-placed Ecuador.
In club football, Liverpool is set to host Chelsea in what will be a significant test for manager Arne Slot, who has had a record-breaking start to his tenure at Anfield. Despite the early success, Slot has remained cautious, acknowledging that they have yet to face a top side, but that will change with Chelsea’s visit.