Author: Barkha Roy
In an electrifying start to CONMEBOL’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, Brazil lived up to expectations by dominating Bolivia with a resounding 5-1 victory on home soil.
The highlight of the match was Neymar, the 31-year-old striker who recently made a high-profile move from Paris Saint-Germain to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. In this match, Neymar “did it all” – he missed a penalty, received a yellow card, hit the crossbar, provided an assist and scored two goals.
Neymar’s exceptional display not only helped secure the win, but also marked his name in history, as he overtook the legendary Pelé to become Brazil’s all-time top scorer. The historic moment came after Neymar missed an early penalty, showing his remarkable resilience and determination. The victory also marked a promising start for Brazil’s newly appointed coach, Fernando Diniz, who took over after Brazil’s elimination in the quarter-finals of the World Cup last year.
Brazil took to the field with a formidable starting line-up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Ederson stood firm in goal, while the defensive line, made up of Danilo, Gabriel, Marquinhos and Lodi, formed an impenetrable barrier. In midfield, Casemiro and Guimarães combined to provide stability and control in the center of the team. The attacking quartet, operating behind striker Richarlison, showed Brazil’s depth and talent, with Raphinha, Neymar and Rodrygo promising creativity and goalscoring ability.
This well-balanced line-up culminated in a resounding 5-1 victory. The other players who took part in the match for Brazil as substitutes were Roger Ibanez, Caio Henrique, Joelinton, Gabriel Jesus and Matheus Cunha.
Neymar, who entered the match level on 77 goals with Pelé, faced a crucial moment 17 minutes into the second half when Brazil were awarded a penalty. However, Bolivia’s goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra denied him from the penalty spot, leaving the score unchanged. Brazil recovered quickly, with Rodrygo taking advantage of Raphinha’s shot saved by Viscarra to put Brazil in the lead – 1:0.
After the break, Brazil continued to assert their dominance. Raphinha’s low shot, although slightly deflected, found the back of the net, further solidifying Brazil’s control of the match – 2:0. Neymar played a key role in Brazil’s third goal, providing a precise pass that Bruno Guimarães expertly redirected to Rodrygo, who finished calmly – 3:0.
The highlight of the match was Neymar’s historic moment, which showed his determination. He took advantage of an opportunity in the box and calmly slotted the ball into the net, scoring his 78th goal in his 125th cap for Brazil. As Neymar celebrated with his arms raised and his eyes fixed on the sky, he surpassed Pelé’s record of 77 goals for Brazil (in 92 matches), a record that had remained untouched since 1957. Pelé, an iconic figure in the world of soccer, sadly passed away in December at the age of 82.
Although Bolivia managed to score a goal, thanks to Victor Abrego’s strike, Neymar wasn’t finished yet. In injury time, he received a low cross from Raphinha, further extending his record and sealing an unforgettable night for the striker – 5:1.
In other qualifying action, Uruguay started their campaign on a high note, recording a convincing 3-1 win over Chile in front of their home fans. This win represented a significant milestone for former Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa, as it was his first official triumph since taking charge of the team.
Round 1
- Brazil – Bolivia – 5:1
- Uruguay – Chile – 3:1
- Argentina – Ecuador – 1:0
- Colombia – Venezuela – 1:0
- Paraguay – Peru – 0:0
According to the results of the first round, Brazil topped the tournament table. Although Uruguay, Argentina and Colombia also won the opening match, the Seleção have the better goal difference.
Round 2 (September, 12)
- Bolivia – Argentina
- Ecuador – Uruguay
- Venezuela – Paraguay
- Chile – Colombia
- Peru – Brazil