Paraguay reach final qualification for Rugby World Cup 2027 in Dubai

Paraguay secured the final place in the Rugby World Cup 2027 Final Qualification Tournament on Saturday after a 31-24 win in Brazil completed a 70-43 aggregate victory over their South American rivals. The two-legged success sends Los Yacarés to Dubai, where they will join Belgium, Namibia and Samoa in a round-robin repechage to decide the 24th and final spot at the tournament in Australia.

The return leg in Jacareí was played in heavy rain on a slippery pitch. Brazil opened strongly, taking a 10-point lead in the first quarter through a penalty from Lucas Tranquez and a try from André Arruda. Paraguay grew into the match as Brazil suffered discipline problems. Wing Arturo López scored twice for Paraguay, flyhalf Sebastián Urbieta added a drop goal and multiple conversions, and replacement Facundo Paiva crossed late in the contest to secure the win. Brazil’s João Souza scored a try but was later shown a red card for punching, and Paraguay finished with their first win in Brazil since 2015.

Paraguay’s two victories — 39-19 at home in Asunción and 31-24 away — move them up to 31st in the World Rugby Men’s Rankings, passing Brazil, now 32nd. The result keeps alive Paraguay’s bid to...