SAO PAULO: Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino scored a crucial goal as Brazil narrowly won 1-0 over Venezuela in the World Cup qualifier just now.

Firmino broke the deadlock in the 66th minute in Sao Paulo, scoring after Venezuelan defender Darwin Machis tried to remove Everton Ribeiro’s cross but reached him.

Firmino’s 16th goal in 47 appearances for Selecao was enough to maintain their 100 per cent record in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.

Brazil have already beaten Bolivia (5-0) and Peru (4-2) and are at the top of the South American group while Argentina is second.

Venezuela, who lost two qualifying matches, defended well to protect the goal from the Brazilian offensive line in the first half at the Morumbi Stadium.

The host clearly lacked the creativity of injured star Neymar in the middle while the attack created by Firmino, Gabriel Jesus and Richarlison, failed to find a place past Venezuela’s defense in the first half.

Richarlison was able to score early but the Everton striker’s joy did not last long when Firmino was found to be in an offside.