Brazil became the first South American side to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2022 after defeating Colombia 1-0 in their own backyard on Friday (November 12). The Selecao won the match thanks to a goal by attacking midfielder Lucas Paqueta in the 72nd minute. Brazil now lead the point standings with 34 points, six more than arch-rival Argentina. Brazil still have six matches left in the qualifiers, and with their current form, they may easily finish with 50 points. Let's take a look at the current CONMEBOL 2022 World Cup qualifying standings.
Match Report: Brazil vs. Colombia
Lucas Paqueta of Olympique Lyon scored his sixth goal for the Brazilian national team against Colombia on Friday (November 12), ensuring the Selecao becomes the first South American team to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2022.
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Brazil's coach Tite fielded his strongest starting XI against Colombia in front of home spectators with the aim of gaining a spot in the mega event. As predicted, Brazil controlled most of the ball possession in the first half but were unable to score. Colombia had a strong defense.
It was a crucial match for Colombia in their quest for a World Cup spot. So they were aiming for a draw, but their resistance was broken in the 72nd minute of the game.
Paqueta's attempt in the D-box was deflected by goalkeeper David Ospina, who was unable to save the ball. Brazil scored in the final quarter of the game, and the contest ended with this scoreline.
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Match Stats: Colombia vs. Brazil
According to the match statistics, Brazil had 64 percent ball possession while Colombia had 36 percent. The home team completed 602 passes compared to 346 for the visiting team. Brazil received four yellow cards for fouling. On the other hand, Colombia received three yellow cards. Brazil will meet Argentina in their next FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifier On Wednesday (November 17).
Current Standings of South American FIFA World Cup 2022 Qualifiers
Argentina also won their qualifier match 1-0 against Uruguay, putting them in second place with 28 points. Ecuador are now in a strong position in the standings after defeating Venezuela 1-0 at home. Ecuador are ranked third in the points table, with a total of 20 points. Chile defeated Paraguay in a crucial match, while Peru thrashed Bolivia 3-0. It should be noted that four teams from the South American zone will qualify straight for the World Cup next year, while the fifth-place team will be allowed to compete in an inter-confederation play-off.
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