Fri Nov 15 20:07:41 IST 2024: ## Venezuela Holds Brazil to a Draw in World Cup Qualifier

**Maturín, Venezuela** – Brazil was held to a 1-1 draw by Venezuela in a thrilling CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier on Thursday, with Vinicius Junior missing a penalty. The result sees Brazil remain in third place with 17 points, while Venezuela moves up to seventh with 12 points.

Brazil dominated possession early on, with Vinicius Junior, fresh from a hat-trick for Real Madrid, creating several chances. However, Venezuela held firm and even threatened on the counter.

Raphinha finally broke the deadlock just before half-time, curling a stunning free-kick past Rafael Romo. However, Venezuela responded almost immediately, with substitute Telasco Segovia scoring a powerful shot from the edge of the box.

Vinicius Junior had a golden opportunity to put Brazil back in front in the 62nd minute after being fouled in the box, but Romo saved his penalty.

The game became tense in the final minutes, with Venezuela reduced to 10 men after Alexander Gonzalez received a red card. Despite the numerical disadvantage, they held on for a crucial point.

The result leaves Brazil in a strong position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, while Venezuela is still in the hunt for a playoff spot.

Argentina, currently top of the CONMEBOL standings, will face Paraguay later on Thursday, while Ecuador hosts Bolivia.

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