World Cup roundup: Argentina held, Brazil survive major scare

Brazil came from a goal down to beat Venezuela 3-1 in a World Cup qualifier match on Friday morning. The South America giants fell behind in the first half away at Venezuela, but three second-half goals - in the last 20 minutes - rescued all three points. The hosts took an early lead when Eric Ramirez took advantage of defenders Fabinho and Marquinhos' unfortunate slips to convert Yeferson Soteldo’s cross in the 11th minute. Despite dominating the half, Brazil could not find a way past the Venezuelan defense, and trailed going into the break. However, Brazil got back on level terms when Marquinhos headed home a corner in the 71st minute before Gabriel Barbosa scored from the spot six minutes from time to give them the advantage. Anthony then made it 3-1 in stoppage time as the visitors kept their 100 percent record in the qualifiers. Elsewhere, Argentina failed to score for the first time since June 2019 but a 0-0 draw at Paraguay but kept their unbeaten run in the World Cup qualifiers with a scoreless draw against Paraguay. Argentina are on a 23-game unbeaten run under coach Lionel Scaloni and remain second in the qualifying group with 19 points, behind Brazil, the only other unbeaten team. Tite's men are atop the standings on 27 points, thanks to their latest win, a 3-1 victory away at Venezuela in Caracas. World Cup qualifier results; Venezuela 1-3 Brazil Paraguay 0-0 Argentina Uruguay 0-0 Colombia Ecuador 3-0 Bolivia Peru 2-0 Chile