Brazil scored a late victory in Chile thanks to two less well-known strikers from Botafogo, who might perhaps save their qualification campaign. Eduardo Vargas gave Chile the lead after just two minutes, shocking the visiting team. It was a nightmare beginning for the Brazil team who needed some positive emotions to start the game.
Brazil answered with lots of chances but failed to create any significant scoring opportunities, as has been the case for the majority of their qualifying campaign. However, in the final seconds of the half, a young player had a significant impact. Igor Jesus, a forward for Botafogo, surprised everyone by starting for Brazil in the center of the goal before halftime by heading the ball into the lower corner after gaining possession of a cross from Savio.
Even though it appeared like the match would end with the points being shared, Luiz Henrique, an unlikely hero for Brazil, came from the bench to score the game's winning goal in the last seconds, guaranteeing that his country would finish with a massive three points and climb into the top six.
Venezuela clinch crucial point against Lionel Messi’s Argentina
On a soggy field in Monagas, Venezuela rallied to secure a home draw with world champion Argentina. The water on the field caused a delay for a long time, and even when it did start in front of a full house, the ball had a terrible time getting across the puddles that drenched the turf. Nevertheless, Nicolás Otamendi, an unlikely source, came up from defence and put the ball in the opening goal, giving the visitors the lead. But Venezuela made a good response.
Perhaps the home team should have tied the score before halftime, but a mix of dreadful finishing and valiant back-row play saved Lionel Messi and his teammates. At last, and perhaps rightfully, parity was restored when Salomón Rondón was set up by Yeferson Soteldo with an accurate cross, and the seasoned striker finished with style from close range.