Brazil close in on World Cup berth post Paraguay drubbing

Sao Paulo [Brazil]: Star striker Neymar continued his fine run of form as Brazil virtually booked their place in next year’s World Cup with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Paraguay in the qualifying clash at home here on Wednesday.

Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho opened the scoring for Brazil just 10 minutes before the break at Arena Corinthians.

Subsequently, Neymar added the second goal for the home side in the 64th minute after missing a second-half penalty, goal.com reported.

The Barcelona striker, who netted his 52nd international goal for Brazil, was also seen wearing the captain’s armband for the first time since March last year.

Just four minutes prior to the final whistle, Marcelo pulled back one goal for Brazil to make it 3-0 scoreline against Paraguay.

It was Brazil’s ninth consecutive win in qualifying event which ensure they will finish the 10-nation group in at least fifth place. The top four in South America earn direct places at the World Cup, while the fifth-ranked team goes into a playoff against a team from Oceania for a spot in Russia.(ANI)