Brazil became the first South American side to qualify for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa on Saturday after beating arch-rivals Argentina 3-1 in Rosario.

With three rounds of play left in the South American qualifying, the five-time World Cup champions lead the standings with 30 points from 15 games. That guarantees that they will be at least fourth in the qualifying round and therefore advance to South Africa.

Argentina started off well, although they enjoyed no clear chances.

In the 24th minute, however, Brazil opened the scoring when Luisao took advantage of loose defending from Argentina, headed the ball into the net off an Elano free kick.

Only six minutes later, Argentine keeper Mariano Andujar blocked a shot from Maicon, but Luis Fabiano was quick to send home the rebounding ball and make it 2-0.

Brazil then took the upper hand before midfielder Jesus Datolo pulled one goal back with a great long-range shot.

But Argentina's happiness was short lived as only two minutes later, Kaka sent a classy pass through to Luis Fabiano, and the Sevilla striker brilliantly chipped the ball over Andujar.

(Xinhua News Agency September 7, 2009)