Brazil’s Gerson scored a spectacular volley to secure a 1-1 draw against Uruguay in a thrilling CONMEBOL qualifier for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday. The match, held at the Arena Fonte Nova, saw both teams battling intensely as they vie for a top spot in the South American standings.
After a tight first half marked by solid defenses, Uruguay took the lead in the 55th minute. Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde unleashed a superb long-range shot that curled low into the far corner, leaving Brazil’s goalkeeper with no chance.
Brazil responded swiftly. Just seven minutes later, Gerson, the Flamengo midfielder, capitalized on a poor clearance by the Uruguayan defense. He struck a terrific volley into the net, marking his first international goal and igniting celebrations among the home fans.
“I’d actually swap my goal for the win,” Gerson told Brazil’s Globo TV. “We knew it was a tough game and we wanted to win. We conceded the goal and got the equalizer. We’ll just have to keep working at our clubs, and next year when there’s another international break we can go for it. We just have to keep working and trust in our work.”
Despite Brazil’s push for a winner, late efforts from Luis Enrique and Raphinha went wide. As the final whistle blew, boos echoed from the stands, reflecting the home crowd’s disappointment at not securing a victory.
“I think the booing is more about the result, because in my opinion we gave it all,” Raphinha said. “I’m proud of those who played and even those on the bench. We did everything we could to get the result. We played a lot of football and we have to leave with our heads held high.”
The draw leaves Brazil in fifth place in the CONMEBOL standings with 18 points, one point behind Colombia and Ecuador. Uruguay sit second with 20 points, five points behind leaders Argentina. The top six teams will automatically qualify for the upcoming World Cup, to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
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Gerson gives Brazil 1-1 draw with Uruguay in World Cup qualifier
cgtn.com
