ROSARIO: While his opposite number Diego Maradona fought to find any positives in a damaging defeat, Brazil coach Dunga was able to revel in his side's passage to the World Cup finals after Saturday night's win in Rosario.

The three points from a fine 3-1 win clinched the Brazilian's qualification and ensured they keep up their record of never missing out, leaving Dunga well-satisfied.

"Argentina have great players such as Lionel Messi, who could be elected world player of the year. They have a very strong team. But Brazil's technical qualities won out," said Dunga.

"I am satisfied to see that we have done our work well, to see the enthusiasm of the Brazilian team and the pleasure with which they played."

Brazil's win handed Argentina only their second ever home qualifying loss - after Colombia beat them in 1993. It also ensured the five-times champions cemented top spot in the regional group while joining Holland, Japan, Australia, South Korea, North Korea and hosts South Africa in next summer's finals.

"It doesn't get any better than this," commented daily O Globo on its website in noting that "Brazil were lethal in attack."

Argentina are in contrast hanging onto the fourth and final qualifying berth with Colombia and Ecuador in hot pursuit following their fifth qualifying defeat.