New Delhi: Brazil steered closer towards the 2010 World Cup after edging Paraguay 2-1 at the Estadio do Arruda in Recife.
Brazil started the stronger of the two sides and within the first two minutes they already had two attempts on goal with efforts from attackers Robinho and Kaka.
The five-time World Champions dominated possession, but it was Paraguay who came closest to scoring when a powerful long-range drive from midfielder Carlos Bonet flew over the crossbar.
As the half progressed Paraguay came more into the game, and they almost went ahead in the 21st minute when a Martinez half volley was saved by Julio Cesar.
In the 24th minute Paraguay took a surprise lead when a Salvador Cabanas freekick took a wild deflection off Elano and fooled a stranded Julio Cesar.
Three minutes later Brazil were presented with a freekick of their own, but Barcelona defender Dani Alves fired it over the bar.
A desperate Brazil pushed forward at every opportunity, and five minutes before the break they were rewarded for their approach as Robinho drew them level when he met a Alves cross with a powerful finish at the back post.
Four minutes into the second half Nilmar put Brazil ahead when he reacted first to a rebound to slot the ball home.
Minutes later Robinho almost added Brazil's third but his swerving shot was brilliantly saved by Just Villar in the Paraguay goal.
Paraguay were restricted to long-range attempts and one of these almost found the back of the net through the always deadly Cabanas but it was palmed away by Julio Cesar.
In the 79th minute Pato missed an incredible opportunity to score when he shot wide when the goal was at his mercy.
Two minutes later Robinho missed another clear-cut opportunity after receiving a sensational ball from Kaka.
In second half injury time Kaka was presented with another great chance to seal the three points, but once again he failed to take advantage of it.
If Brazil claim a victory in their next qualifier against Argentina in September they will secure passage into the World Cup of South Africa.
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