Brazil remarkable home winning streak in World Cup qualifying came to an end on Thursday night, as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Venezuela. The Venezuelans equalized late in the game through a spectacular bicycle kick from Eduard Bello, which canceled out Gabriel Magalhães’ earlier opener.
The draw is a major setback for Brazil in their quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. They are currently in second place in the CONMEBOL standings, two points behind leaders Argentina. Venezuela, on the other hand, is in seventh place, but they can take great heart from this result.
Brazil:
Brazil entered the game as heavy favorites, having won their previous 15 home matches in World Cup qualifying. They started the game brightly and created a number of chances, but they were unable to find the breakthrough.
Their breakthrough eventually came in the 52nd minute, when Gabriel Magalhães headed home a corner kick from Neymar. They continued to press for a second goal, but they were unable to finish their chances.
Venezuela:
Venezuela defended resolutely throughout the game and made it difficult for Brazil to create clear-cut chances. They also had a few chances of their own on the counter-attack, but they were unable to convert them.
Their equalizer came in the 85th minute, through a stunning bicycle kick from Eduard Bello. Bello received a cross from the left flank and controlled it on his chest, before executing a perfect overhead kick that flew into the top corner of the net.
Analysis:
The draw is a major setback for Brazil, but it is a huge boost for Venezuela. Brazil will need to pick themselves up quickly, as they have a tough away match against Uruguay coming up next. Venezuela, on the other hand, will be confident of getting a positive result in their next game against Colombia.
Brazil’s remarkable home winning streak comes to an end
Brazil had not lost a home match in World Cup qualifying since 2015. Their last defeat came against Colombia, who won 1-0 in Barranquilla.
Brazil’s home-winning streak was a testament to their dominance in South American football. They have won the Copa América nine times, more than any other team.
Venezuela earns shock draw
Venezuela had never won a World Cup qualifier against Brazil before Thursday night’s game. Their previous best result against Brazil was a draw in 2008.
Venezuela’s draw is a huge boost to their confidence. They have been struggling in recent years, but this result shows that they are capable of beating the best teams in South America.
Eduard Bello’s spectacular bicycle kick
Eduard Bello’s bicycle kick was one of the best goals of the World Cup qualifying campaign so far. It was a moment of individual brilliance that helped Venezuela earn a shock draw against Brazil.
Bello’s goal is a testament to his skill and talent. He is one of the most exciting young players in South American football.
Impact on the World Cup qualifying table
Brazil’s draw with Venezuela leaves them in second place in the CONMEBOL standings, two points behind leaders Argentina. Venezuela, on the other hand, is in seventh place, but they are now only four points behind fourth-placed Colombia.
The draw is a major setback for Brazil in their quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. They will need to pick themselves up quickly, as they have a tough away match against Uruguay coming up next. Venezuela, on the other hand, will be confident of getting a positive result in their next game against Colombia.
Conclusion
Venezuela’s draw is one of the biggest upsets in World Cup qualifying history. It is a testament to the hard work and determination of the Venezuelan players and staff.
The draw also has a major impact on the World Cup qualifying table. Brazil are now in second place, two points behind leaders Argentina, while Venezuela are in seventh place, but they are now only four points behind fourth-placed Colombia.