2026 World Cup: South America’s Final Line-Up Confirmed

The South American Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup have concluded in a thrilling fashion, delivering intensity and drama over a two-year period. With six nations having secured qualification and one set to take part in the playoffs, join us as we examine those encounters which have made the CONMEBOL qualifiers so special, as well as who our eyes will be trained on in the coming World Cup campaign.

Out of the ten nations that took part, Argentina, Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay, Brazil, and Ecuador have progressed to the next round after 90 games of hard-fought action. They demonstrated resilience and composure being pitted against the continent's best, and are ready to face what is to come on the world stage. In addition, Bolivia still has an opportunity to qualify through the Inter-Confederation play-offs.

Uruguay vs Peru 3-0 (September 4th 2025): Uruguay confirmed their fifth consecutive World Cup appearance after a dominant 3-0 victory over Peru with goals from Aguirre, De Arrascaeta, and Vinas being the deciding factor. 

Colombia vs Bolivia (September 5th 2025): Meanwhile, Colombia made easy work of Bolivia in a 3-0 win at home with key contributions from James Rodriguez and Juan Fernando Quintero 

Paraguay vs Ecuador 0-0 (September 4th 2025): Paraguay’s goalless draw against Ecuador was all they needed to confirm their return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014. Can Paraguay mark this feat with more victories to come?

Ecuador vs Argentina 1-0 (September 9th): Ecuador secured their second-place finish in the CONMEBOL qualifiers courtesy of a penalty from Enner Valencia in the first half, breaking their four-game draw streak.

Venezuela vs Colombia 3-6 (September 9th): Being one of the last games of the qualifiers, fans were certainly given a spectacle with nine goals scored over the course of 90 minutes. A standout performance was given by number 19, Luis Suárez, who scored his first four international goals to end Venezuela’s World Cup aspirations.

Having talked about the games which gave us the most thrill in the closing days of the qualifiers, let's now look ahead to the future as we consider which teams are seen as likely contenders for the World Cup title.

Being the current defending champions and leaders at the top of the table, Argentina are serious contenders to win it once more. And with a star-studded squad of talent such as Lisandro Martínez, Mac Allister, Lionel Messi, and many more, this is an even greater possibility. Another top team and renowned for their attacking flair and control on the ball, Brazil are always a dangerous opponent to face. Whilst struggling in the initial stages of the qualifiers, Ancelotti and his squad are ready to bounce back. Fresh from their 6-3 victory, Colombia are on a high and will be sure to take advantage of this in the group stages. Attention will also be on Bolivia, who whilst failing to secure automatic qualification have an opportunity to make up for their shortfall via the Inter-Confederation play-offs. These will take place in March 2026 in North America as a prelude to the World Cup.

With the 2026 World Cup set to be one of the biggest in history, this will be an experience you won't want to miss. Once tickets are released, purchase your tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime event with GlobalEventsZone through our secure online booking system and witness football history in the making!