The penultimate matchday of the South American Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered triple joy: Uruguay, Colombia and Paraguay all punched their tickets to the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada. With these results, six CONMEBOL nations are already confirmed, while the playoff spot remains up for grabs.

Uruguay clinches fifth consecutive World Cup

La Celeste shined at the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo with a 3-0 victory over Peru. Goals from Rodrigo Aguirre, Giorgian de Arrascaeta and Federico Viñas sealed Marcelo Bielsa’s side their fifth straight World Cup, after appearances in South Africa 2010, Brazil 2014, Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022.

Beyond the result, Uruguay displayed defensive solidity and attacking versatility, reaffirming their status as a dangerous opponent heading into 2026.

Colombia ends winless streak with style

In Barranquilla, Colombia broke a six-match winless run with a convincing 3-0 win over Bolivia. Goals from James Rodríguez, Jhon Córdoba and Juan Fernando Quintero secured Los Cafeteros their seventh World Cup appearance.

The victory not only sealed qualification, but also restored confidence in Néstor Lorenzo’s project. Colombian fans are once again dreaming of a deep run, like their quarterfinal finish at Brazil 2014.

Paraguay returns to the big stage

In Asunción, Paraguay held Ecuador to a nervy 0-0 draw, enough to reach 25 points and lock down sixth place—the last direct qualification spot. Under Gustavo Alfaro, La Albirroja will return to the World Cup after a 16-year absence, with their last appearance coming in South Africa 2010. This will be their ninth World Cup overall.

Six South American teams already through

With the latest results, six CONMEBOL nations have secured their spots: Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Colombia, Ecuador and Paraguay. The playoff berth will be decided between Venezuela and Bolivia on the final matchday.

The round also left another historic moment: Lionel Messi scored a brace and, alongside Lautaro Martínez, led Argentina to a 3-0 win over Venezuela in what was his last World Cup Qualifier on home soil.