World Cup Qualifying: Tensions Rise as Final Spots Near Finalization

ASUNCION, Paraguay — The CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying rounds are nearing their end, with just two matches left for teams to secure their spots in the 2026 FIFA World Cup this fall.

As it stands, Argentina, Brazil, and Ecuador have already qualified, leaving three direct spots available and one place in the inter-confederation playoffs for weary combatants in South America. With a total of 10 teams aiming for qualification alongside host nations Canada, Mexico, and the United States, the stakes are exceptionally high.

The qualification process began as early as September 2023, marking CONMEBOL’s rigorous competition with each team facing 18 matches. Currently, Uruguay and Paraguay sit in strong positions, needing just one point from their remaining games to secure World Cup entries.

Colombia, positioned sixth, holds a four-point advantage over Venezuela and five points over Bolivia. Their upcoming matches on September 4 against Bolivia and September 9 against Venezuela will be critical. If they secure points against Bolivia, the latter’s chances for direct qualification will vanish.

Currently, Peru’s situation appears bleak, as they must win against both Uruguay and Paraguay while relying on other teams to stumble in their remaining matches.

“It’s a do-or-die situation for us. We have to focus on winning both games,” said Peru head coach Juan Reynoso.

As the matches unfold, attention will also turn to the playoffs with Venezuela needing a combination of perfect outcomes to secure their spot. Meanwhile, big matches on the horizon, such as Colombia facing Bolivia, will be vital deciders for the fates of several teams on the cusp of qualification.

With the World Cup set to be hosted across North America from June 11 to July 19, 2026, fans eagerly anticipate which teams will join the already qualified nations in the grandest soccer event on the planet.