Venezuela won against Brazil (1-1). The team owes this point in particular to its goalkeeper Rafael Romo.
Brazil is definitely struggling in this South American qualifying phase for the 2026 World Cup. The Seleçao is fourth (out of ten) in the group. Yesterday, the team traveled to Venezuela, seventh with three points less, the first nation outside the qualifying places.
The Auriverdes undoubtedly thought they had done the hardest part by opening the scoring with a direct free kick from Raphinha at the very end of the first half (0-1).
Venezuela still believes in it
But Venezuela returned to the field with the knife between their teeth and equalized at the start of the second act. Another turning point on the hour mark when the Brazilians won a penalty to regain the advantage.
More Rafael Romo decided otherwise. The former Leuven goalkeeper (two seasons spent with Den Dreef) became the hero of the evening thanks to his save on Vinicius’ too-soft ball.
The Real star will blame himself: the score has no longer changed, preventing Brazil from taking shelter in the standings. For Romo, aged 34 and returned to South America almost two years ago, it is, however, a great achievement.
