Vinicius' late magic salvages crucial win for Brazil

Vinicius Jr spoke of his pride playing for Brazil, as he struck a dramatic winner in the ninth minute of stoppage time to clinch a 2-1 win over Colombia in their South American World Cup qualifier on March 20.

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BRASILIA - Vinicius Jr spoke of his pride playing for Brazil, as he struck a dramatic winner in the ninth minute of stoppage time to clinch a 2-1 win over Colombia in their South American World Cup qualifier on March 20.

The five-time world champions had taken a sixth-minute lead in Brasilia through a Raphinha penalty, only for Luis Diaz's fine 41st-minute strike to level the game for Colombia.

The visitors then dominated their opponents in the second half, but were ultimately sunk by the Real Madrid winger's last-gasp winner.

"Today's goal is a bit of relief, a bit of happiness. Playing for the national team is something you can't explain," said Vinicius.

"Every time we come here, it's like it's the first time."

The victory leaves Brazil well positioned in second place in the 10-team qualifying group, four points behind leaders Argentina, who travel to Uruguay on March 21.