Striker Roque Santa Cruz scored one goal and set up a second to inspire 10-man Paraguay to a 2-0 win over Brazil [Images] in their World Cup qualifier on Sunday.

Santa Cruz scored from close range midway through the first half and set up the second for Salvador Cabanas just after halftime.

Paraguay, who top the South American group with 13 points from five games, also hit the woodwork twice and won comfortably despite having defender Dario Veron sent off early in the second half.

The defeat left Brazil with eight points and increased the pressure on coach Dunga following their shock 2-0 defeat to Venezuela in a friendly 10 days ago.

Brazil, missing Kaka [Images] after he underwent a knee operation last month, have not won in Asuncion since 1985.

Paraguay began the game with three forwards while Brazil adopted a cautious approach with four defenders and three tackling specialists in midfield.

The hosts quickly took control, won a flurry of corners and sounded a warning in the 24th minute when Cabanas collected an Edgar Barreto pass, skipped past a challenge and shot against the post.

Paraguay deservedly went ahead two minutes later when, from a corner on the left, Cabanas flicked the ball on at the near post and Santa Cruz sidefooted in from close range.

Brazil's timid response was reduced to a couple of free kicks around the penalty area, both wasted, and a Robinho shot which was blocked by Justo Villar.

The visitors, who replaced Josue with Anderson at halftime, got a break three minutes after the re-start when Paraguay defender Dario Veron picked up a second yellow card for an off-the-ball tackle on Robinho and was sent off.

But one minute later, Paraguay increased their lead with Santa Cruz this time acting as provider for Cabanas.

The Blackburn Rovers striker burst down the left, his cross-shot was parried by Julio Cesar but fell to Cabanas who scored from close range.

Paraguay were close to a third in the 56th minute when Cabanas hit the bar and Santa Cruz's shot from the rebound was cleared off the line.

Brazil then took control but lacked creativity. Their best effort was a long-range shot by Anderson which was turned away by Villar, only the second serious save he made in the entire game.

• Complete football coverage