Argentina leads and Brazil guarantees place in the 2026 South American qualifiers By Janderson Luiz
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The South American qualifiers for the Copa of the 2026 Mundo came to an end after 18 rounds played since September 2023. Argentina comfortably secured first place, while five other teams secured direct places. Seis teams from Conmebol qualified directly for the Mundial expanded to 48 teams, and one advanced to the intercontinental repechage. The process highlighted the competitiveness on the continent, with surprises in the middle part of the table.
The six direct vacancies were filled by Argentina, Equador, Colômbia, Uruguai, Brasil and Paraguai. Bolivia won seventh place and the right to the world repechage, where they will face representatives from other confederations in March 2026. Traditional Times such as Chile and Peru finished in the last places and were out of contention.
Argentina consolidates leadership dominance
The Argentine team finished the campaign with 38 points, the result of 12 wins, two draws and four defeats. The positive goal difference of +21 reflects solid performance in attack and defense. The team maintained consistency throughout the rounds and secured their place in advance.
Key players contributed to the good offensive and defensive numbers. Argentina achieved impressive results in direct confrontations against traditional rivals.
Ecuador surprises and secures second position
Ecuador accumulated 29 points in 18 games, with eight wins, eight draws and two defeats. The goal difference of +9 demonstrates balance, especially in defense, which conceded few goals. The campaign marked a recovery in relation to previous editions.
The team exploited the home factor well and obtained important points away from home. Resultados against strong opponents helped to consolidate the high position in the table.
Colombia and Uruguai are tied on points in third and fourth place
Colombia finished with 28 points, thanks to seven wins, seven draws and four defeats. The attack scored 28 goals, which represents one of the best offensive records in the tie. The defense conceded 18 goals.
Uruguay also scored 28 points, with seven wins, seven draws and four defeats. The Uruguayan team had a balance of +10 and showed strength in decisive games. Ambas the selections guaranteed direct places due to tiebreaker criteria applied by Conmebol.
Brazil and Paraguai complete the group of direct qualifiers
Brazil reached 28 points after eight wins, four draws and six defeats. Apesar of fluctuations, the team secured its place with results in key clashes. The positive goal difference reinforced the position.
Paraguay finished with 28 points, seven wins, seven draws and four defeats. The campaign highlighted defensive solidity and success in draws. The classification represents an important return for Mundial.
Bolivia advances to repechage after surprising campaign
Bolivia finished in seventh place and secured a place in the intercontinental repechage. The team scored crucial points in the final rounds and exceeded initial expectations. The team will play against representatives from other confederations in search of an additional spot.
Venezuela, Peru and Chile occupied the lower positions of the table. Esses teams were unable to gain enough points to fight for direct places or playoff places.
The Conmebol had six direct vacancies plus one for repechage due to the expansion of the Mundial. Argentina led with authority. Equador, Colômbia, Uruguai, Brasil and Paraguai completed the direct vacancies. Bolivia continues in the dispute via repechage.
Main highlights of the campaign
- Argentina remained unbeaten in several key games.
- Ecuador stood out for its defensive consistency.
- Colombia presented one of the most productive attacks.
- Uruguay and Paraguai secured places with general balance.
- Brazil overcame difficulties to secure its position.
- Bolivia surprised with points in decisive games.
Eliminated teams and next steps
Chile and Peru finished in the last positions and did not advance. Venezuela was close, but did not reach seventh place. The intercontinental playoff takes place in March 2026, with neutral games or in locations defined by Fifa. Bolivia enters as the South American representative at this stage.
Argentina 38 points (18 games, balance +21) Bolivia (7th, repechage)
