Bolivia Hands Ancelotti First Loss as Brazil Falls in World Cup Qualifying
LA PAZ, Bolivia – Bolivia delivered a stunning upset, defeating Brazil 1-0 in a World Cup qualifying match on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, marking the first defeat for coach Carlo Ancelotti as taking the helm of the Brazilian national team. The goal, scored by Miguelito in the 48th minute of the first half at the El Alto Municipal Stadium, sent shockwaves through the South American qualifying campaign.
The loss throws a wrench into Brazil’s preparations for the expanded 48-team 2026 World Cup – the first edition with this new format, featuring 104 matches across 12 groups. While Brazil remains a strong contender, Ancelotti’s squad will need to regroup quickly ahead of upcoming kind matches against South Korea and Japan in october, and the December 5 group stage draw in Washington. This defeat underscores the increasing competitiveness of South American qualifying and the challenges ancelotti faces in integrating his squad.
Brazil’s starting lineup included Alisson in goal,with a midfield comprised of Andrey Santos,Bruno Guimarães,and Lucas Paquetá. Substitutions during the match saw Vitinho replaced by Marquinhos, Andrey Santos by Jean Lucas, Luiz Henrique by Raphinha, Samuel Lino by Stephen, and Richarlison by João Pedro.
Bolivia, coached by Óscar Villegas, fielded Lampe in goal and a lineup including Miguelito, who proved to be the match-winner. The match was officiated by Cristian Garay of chile.
ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup began Wednesday, September 10th, at noon Brasília time. The tournament will kick off on June 11,2026,at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City,culminating in the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.