The curtain has fallen on the CONMEBOL qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the final matchday did not disappoint. With six teams already qualified, the spotlight was on the battle for the last playoff spot—and Bolivia seized it in stunning fashion. Here’s a full recap of the key matches and final standings.
Bolivia 1–0 Brazil
Scorer: Miguel Terceros (45’ pen)
Venue: El Alto, Bolivia
In a historic upset, Bolivia defeated Brazil at home for the first time since 2019. Miguel Terceros converted a penalty just before halftime, and Bolivia held firm against a lackluster Brazilian side. The win, combined with Venezuela’s loss, secured Bolivia a place in the intercontinental playoff—their first World Cup opportunity since 1994.
Ecuador 1–0 Argentina
Scorer: Enner Valencia (45’ pen)
Venue: Guayaquil, Ecuador
Ecuador capped off their campaign with a gritty win over group leaders Argentina. Enner Valencia’s penalty was enough to seal the victory, although both teams had already qualified. Lionel Messi was rested for the match, having played his final home qualifier last week.
Chile 0–0 Uruguay
Venue: Santiago, Chile
Chile ended their campaign with a goalless draw against Uruguay, who had already secured qualification. Despite dominating possession and creating more chances, La Roja couldn’t find the net and finished bottom of the table—a bitter end to a disappointing run.
Peru 0–1 Paraguay
Scorer: Matías Galarza (78’)
Venue: Lima, Peru
Paraguay sealed their World Cup spot with a late winner from Matías Galarza. Peru, already eliminated, showed fight but lacked finishing quality. Paraguay’s disciplined campaign earned them sixth place and a return to the World Cup after a 16-year absence.
Venezuela 3–6 Colombia
Scorers (VEN): Segovia (3’), Martínez (12’), Rondón (76’)
Scorers (COL): Mina (10’), Suárez (42’, 50’, 59’, 67’), Córdoba (78’)
Venue: Maturín, Venezuela
In a wild nine-goal thriller, Colombia crushed Venezuela’s playoff hopes. Luis Suárez was unstoppable, scoring four goals in a dazzling display. Colombia, already qualified, finished strong, while Venezuela’s dream of a first World Cup appearance was dashed.
Qualified
The top 6 finishers will now automatically qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 with 7th place having to play further qualifying matches.
The reigning world champions Argentina dominated the qualifiers finishing 1st on 38 points with consistent performances and a strong defensive record. Lionel Messi led the charge, and Argentina remain one of the tournament favorites.
Despite a 3-point deduction early in the campaign, Ecuador showed resilience and tactical discipline. Their win over Argentina on the final matchday sealed a well-earned qualification finishing in 2nd on 29 points.
Colombia finished strong in 3rd, including a thrilling 6–3 win over Venezuela. With a balanced squad and attacking flair, they return to the World Cup after missing out in 2022.
Under Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay played dynamic football and secured qualification finishing 4th with games to spare. Their mix of youth and experience makes them a team to watch.
Brazil had a surprisingly poor campaign by their standards, however secured qualification finishing 5th including a final-day loss to Bolivia. Still, their talent pool and pedigree make them a perennial contender.
Paraguay quietly climbed the table with disciplined performances. They grabbed the final automatic qualifying spot in 6th. Their qualification marks a return to the World Cup after a 16-year absence.
Whats Next?
Bolivia 7th place will now enter the intercontinental playoff in March 2026, facing teams from other confederations for a final chance to reach the World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
With South America sending six strong teams and one playoff hopeful, the continent remains a powerhouse heading into the expanded tournament next summer.