Playing in Bolivia is a source of fear for opposing teams. In this country, which is one of the highest in the world, teams often have to return home exhausted. With that fear, Brazil went to Bolivia's El Alto Stadium to play the last match of the World Cup qualifiers.
Although not exhausted, Brazil left the field with a loss in this match held at an altitude of 4,150 meters above sea level. Bolivia won 1-0 against Brazil at home. With this win against Brazil, Bolivia also kept their hopes of playing in the World Cup alive. With today's win, Bolivia has qualified to play in the Inter-Confederation Play-Offs. The team was seen celebrating with emotion and excitement after the match. Now it remains to be seen whether Bolivia can play in the final round of the World Cup.
After today's match, Brazil finished the World Cup qualifiers from number 5. Their points are 28 in 18 matches. Argentina, who are at the top, have 38 points in 18 matches. Bolivia, who finished seventh, have 20 points in 18 matches.
Brazil was under pressure from the start in the Bolivian field. The hosts were in control of the entire first half. They tested Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson several times.
The effect of resting some of the players who played well against Chile in the previous match was also seen in Brazil's game; there was also the discomfort of altitude. All in all, Brazil could not be at all terrible on the field.
Faced with pressure, they gave Bolivia a penalty in the added time of the first half. The hosts got this penalty when Bolivia's R. Fernandez was fouled by Brazil's Bruno Guimaraes in the box during the fight for possession of the ball. Initially, the referee did not give a penalty, but after checking the VAR, he changed his decision. Midfielder Miguel Tercores scored the goal from the penalty.
After the break, Brazil tried to turn around and attack; although they were not successful. At this time, the host Bolivia also tried to increase the gap. But their several attacks came close and failed.
However, there was not much life in the game at this time. Both teams struggled to establish control of the match. The situation remained unchanged for the rest of the match, and Brazil eventually lost.