Marquinhos Helps Brazil Pip Peru In World Cup Qualifying Match

Neymar failed to have an impact, but a last-gasp header from Marquinhos saved the Selecao, to snatch a 1-0 win after a morbid performance against Peru in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match.

Neymar was influential against Bolivia last week, but failed to offer much against Peru as some of his passing was wayward, especially in the final third. Perhaps that’s expected from a player who had major ankle surgery six months ago.

The Selecao relied heavily on the former PSG star, and needed Marquinhos’ late heroics from to pick up three points.

Peru didn’t make it easy for him, but Marquinhos was classy on the ball and rarely troubled in defence. Bagged a dramatic late winner, completing a memorable night.

Brazil had the ball in the net after 15 minutes thanks to an opportunistic finish from Raphinha — but his effort was ruled out due to an offside in the build up. The Selecao were left equally frustrated 15 minutes later, when Richarlison nodded home, only to be flagged marginally offside following a lengthy VAR review. They had further chances. Neymar saw an effort saved, while Rodrygo’s incisive passing also caused problems.

They were more expansive in the second half, but failed to capitalise from open play, with Neymar’s lack of sharpness in the final third a consistent issue. It was a corner that proved the difference, Marquinhos sneaking in at the near post to flick the ball into the back of the net in the 90th minute.