Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes fires Brazil to victory in World Cup qualifier

The 27-year-old midfielder was named in Carlo Ancelotti's starting line-up, partnering Manchester United's Casemiro in the centre of the pitch. 

Guimaraes capped a commanding display by scoring Brazil's third goal of the night, his second for the national team.

Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte rated him highly, awarding an eight out of ten and praising his all-round contribution. They described his performance as "a textbook display for a dynamic midfielder," highlighting his tackling, passing, and ability to create chances.

Guimaraes twice set up Gabriel Martinelli, linked well with Luiz Henrique, and drove the team forward throughout the second half.

The victory kept Brazil second in the CONMEBOL standings, 10 points behind leaders and world champions Argentina. Although the gap remains wide, Ancelotti's men are already assured of their place at the 2026 World Cup in North America, with the top six guaranteed qualification.

For Guimaraes, it would be a second appearance at the tournament, and his starting role suggests he is certain to be on the plane.

Back in England, Guimaraes has been equally influential for Newcastle at the start of the Premier League season, captaining Eddie Howe's side and providing consistency in midfield.

His leadership has drawn praise, with Howe recently saying that Bruno's "quality and character set the standard for the squad."

Brazil will round off their qualifying campaign away to Bolivia on Tuesday, where Ancelotti may look to rotate his side. That could deny Guimaraes more minutes, while his Newcastle teammate Joelinton has already missed out after withdrawing from the squad with an injury sustained in the defeat to Liverpool.

The issue is not thought to be serious, and Newcastle expect him to return after the international break.

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