Brazil swat Argentina aside, qualify for World Cup

Brazil booked a place in next year's World Cup and further threatened arch rival Argentina's chances of qualifying by winning their qualifier 3-1 on Saturday.

Luis Fabiano scored two goals and Luisao added another for Brazil, raising the pressure on Argentina coach Diego Maradona.

The victory in the World Cup qualifier guarantees Brazil a place in next year's 32-team tournament - as expected.

The five-time champions have played in every World Cup.

Six other nations have already advanced: Australia, Japan, North Korea, South Korea and the Netherlands. South Africa qualifies automatically as host.

Image: The Brazilian team celebrate their emphatic win. AFP