Brazil cruised on toward the 2010 World Cup in South Africa with a 4-2 win over Chile in the north-eastern Brazilian city of Salvador.
Despite the fact that they had already obtained a World Cup berth over the weekend and despite the absences of stars like Kaka, Robinho, Luis Fabiano and Lucio, the side coached by Carlos Dunga played well against Chile.
Villarreal striker Nilmar was the man of the match with a hat-trick and goals in the 31st, 74th and 76th minutes while Julio Baptista scored Brazil’s remaining goal in the 40th minute.
Chile’s goals were both scored by striker Humberto Suazo in the 45th minute and the 52nd minute, the first of them from the spot.
Under the rain, Brazil pulled ahead 2-0, but they appeared to struggle after Felipe Melo was sent off in the 49th minute.
Chile thus missed its first chance to qualify for the World Cup, but they put on a good performance even in defeat against a brilliant Brazilian side.
Brazil now have 33 points in 16 rounds of qualifiers. Paraguay — who have also qualified — have 30 points while Chile remained at 27 and still have good chances of advancing to the tournament. Ecuador are fourth with 23 points while Argentina have 22.
