Brazil and Ecuador have secured their spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup following crucial results in South American qualifiers on Tuesday, while Uruguay moved within touching distance of qualification.
Brazil clinched their place with a narrow 1-0 victory over Paraguay in São Paulo, marking the first win of Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure as head coach. Vinicius Jr. netted the decisive goal in the 44th minute after a low cross from new Manchester United signing Matheus Cunha, who had earlier missed a clear opportunity.
“It was a good match with a very good first half,” said Ancelotti, praising his team’s “commitment” and “attitude” in what was also his 66th birthday.
The win takes Brazil to third place with 25 points from 16 matches, ensuring a top-six finish and automatic qualification to the finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Paraguay, meanwhile, remain on 24 points and need just one more from their final two matches to reach their first World Cup since 2010.
Ecuador Seal Qualification with Draw
Ecuador became the second team of the night to qualify after earning a 0-0 draw against Peru in Lima. The result was enough to take them over the line, continuing their impressive campaign.
Uruguay Nearly There, Chile Crash Out
Uruguay edged Venezuela 2-0 in Montevideo, with goals from Rodrigo Aguirre and Giorgian de Arrascaeta. Marcelo Bielsa’s side now need only one point from their remaining two fixtures to secure qualification.
Venezuela’s loss leaves them in seventh place with 18 points, currently in line for the intercontinental playoff spot. The nation is still pursuing its first-ever World Cup appearance.
Chile’s qualification hopes ended after a 2-0 defeat to Bolivia, marking their third consecutive failure to reach the World Cup. Once Copa America champions in 2015 and 2016, Chile’s decline continues as Bolivia’s win lifts their own slim hopes.
Argentina Draw with Colombia
Argentina, already qualified, were held to a 1-1 draw by Colombia in Buenos Aires. Luis Diaz gave the visitors the lead in the 24th minute, and Argentina’s chances were dented further when Enzo Fernandez was sent off. However, Thiago Almada rescued a point for the world champions in the 81st minute.
Qualification Format
The top six teams from the South American group advance automatically to the World Cup, while the seventh-placed side will enter an intercontinental playoff. With only two matchdays left, the race remains tight for the final spots.
