Brazil’s performance versus Venezuela suffered due to Neymar’s error.
Brazil hosted Venezuela in their third qualifying match for the 2026 World Cup in the South American continent. The Brazilian home team made no secret of their desire to win big by fielding a strong roster featuring numerous attacking players like Neymar, Vinicius, Rodrygo, and Richarlison.
However, Brazil’s attacks were less effective than expected in the first half. Brazil’s ability to control and dominate the game was aided by their use of quick combinations, but they struggled to break through Venezuela’s compact defense.
Brazilian players tried their luck with long-range shots because they were unable to quickly reach the opponent’s goal by penetrating the penalty area. Neymar and Richarlison, though, were not in a good scoring position, and their attempts lacked the necessary threat and accuracy to score.
Brazil scored the game’s first goal in the 50th minute after starting the second half on the offensive. Gabriel, a midfielder, made a ferocious run and header off a Neymar corner kick. Netta Venezuelana.
Even after scoring the game-winning goal, Brazil continued to press forward. Neymar and his colleagues kept pressing forward with the intention of extending the lead.
Vinicius put a shot in the back of the net for Brazil in the 72nd minute, and it looked like they had a comfortable lead at that point. The goal was initially disallowed because the referee thought Neymar was onside, but VAR confirmed that he actually was offside.
Brazil paid a high price since they attacked frequently but failed to score more goals. After receiving a pass from a teammate on the right flank, Bello leaned back and hooked the ball superbly to beat Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson and deliver a very shocking equalizer for Venezuela in the 85th minute.
Brazil pressed Venezuela relentlessly for the remainder of the game (including the 9 minutes of overtime) but came up empty. Brazil’s winning streak came to an end after this match, which they were unable to win.