With just enough and missing the creativity of Neymar and Coutinho, Brazil beat a fierce Venezuela 1-0 this Friday in Sao Paulo, a result that leaves it as the lonely leader of the South American World Cup towards Qatar-2022.

Forward Roberto Firmino relieved a Brazil that controlled possession of the ball without anguish but found it difficult to violate the solid defense of Vinotinto, who despite his dignified presentation left the Morumbí stadium empty-handed.

The Liverpool striker from England scored his 16th goal with the verdeamarela in the 66th minute, after holed a cross from left-back Renan Lodi that fell into goalkeeper Wuilker Faríñez’s small area.

With the victory, the Seleçao adjusted a perfect score after three starts. The Caribbean, for their part, remain at the bottom of the table without points.

Brazil will defend their lead against Uruguay on Tuesday in Montevideo. On the same day, Venezuela will receive Chile in Caracas.