Venezuela 1-1 Brazil (15 Nov, 2024) Game Analysis – ESPN (IN)

Fri Nov 15 09:09:52 UTC 2024: ## Brazil Stumbles to Draw in Venezuela, Missing Chance to Close Gap on Argentina

**Caracas, Venezuela** – Brazil’s quest for a record sixth World Cup title hit a snag on Thursday as they were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw against Venezuela in a thrilling South American qualifier. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, the five-time world champions were unable to convert their dominance into a win.

Raphinha gave Brazil the lead in the 43rd minute with a stunning free-kick that ricocheted off the post and into the net. It was Brazil’s first goal from a free kick in World Cup qualifiers since 2005, when Roberto Carlos scored against the same opponents.

However, the lead was short-lived. Just 38 seconds into the second half, substitute Telasco Segovia leveled the score with a blistering shot from the edge of the box.

Brazil had a golden opportunity to regain the lead in the 62nd minute when Vinicius Junior was fouled inside the penalty area. However, the Real Madrid forward saw his poorly taken spot kick saved by Venezuelan goalkeeper Rafael Romo, and he also missed the rebound.

The match became increasingly tense towards the end, with substitute Alexander Gonzalez being sent off in the 89th minute for hitting both Gabriel Martinelli and Vinicius in the face.

Despite the numerical advantage, Brazil were unable to find a winner and settled for a draw. The result leaves them third in the standings on 17 points, five behind leaders Argentina. Venezuela sits seventh with 12 points.

“It’s just sad because, for me, the most important thing is to win, and I think we could have won the match,” Raphinha told Brazilian TV Globo. “We knew it was going to be complicated, their team also has good qualities, but sometimes things get complicated by what happens in the match, when you fail to score the chances you have. We have to keep working to get back to winning ways.”

Brazil will look to bounce back against Uruguay in Salvador on Tuesday, while Venezuela faces a trip to Chile.