Paraguay book Rugby World Cup repechage spot at Brazil's expense

Under heavy rain and slippery conditions, Paraguay booked their place in the World Rugby repechage tournament this November, defeating Brazil 31-24 at Jacareí’s Estadio do Cambusano.

After securing a 39-19 win in the series opener, the Yacarés travelled to Brazil determined to deliver for their supporters, having been thumped 77-17 the last time they played on Tupís turf.

Despite the final scoreline, the visitors trailed early, conceding ten points in the opening quarter – Brazil’s best spell of the contest. André Arruda forced his way over for the first try after Lucas Tranquez had opened the scoring with a penalty. With the conversion added, the hosts looked on course to overturn Paraguay’s 20-point first-leg advantage.

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But Brazilian indiscipline began to take its toll, allowing the visitors to grow into the game. After several close calls, Paraguay finally broke through when wing Arturo López crossed in the corner for their first try, with Brazil down to 14 men. Fly-half Sebastián Urbieta added the extras.

The home side hit back, and after a brilliant break from Robson Morais, centre João Amaral dotted down to extend Brazil’s lead to seven points.

That would be the last time they led, as Paraguay steadily turned the tide – sparked by an unexpected drop goal from Urbieta. The playmaker continued to orchestrate proceedings, setting up López for his second try of the evening to level the leg at 17-17 heading into the break.

With pressure mounting, the Tupís again lost their discipline when No.8 Arruda was sent to the sin bin for foul play. Paraguay capitalised, with replacement back Facundo Paiva crashing over for their third try.

Urbieta slotted three more kicks from the tee as the Yacarés took full control.

Brazil mounted a brief response when front-rower João Souza powered through to score, with Tranquez converting to trim the deficit to seven.

But any hopes of a comeback were dashed when Souza was shown red for a shoulder to the head of an opponent, ending Brazil’s challenge. Paraguayan centre Ramiro Amarilla was also yellow-carded after the ensuing scuffle.

Referee Tomás Bertazza blew full-time on a tense encounter, sparking celebrations as Paraguay claimed their first win in Brazil since 2015.

They will now join Namibia, Belgium and Samoa in the World Rugby repechage in November, with the winner securing the final berth at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.