Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay Secure Their Spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
South America’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached another milestone as Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay confirmed their places in the upcoming tournament in North America. Their qualification highlights not only decisive match performances but also the return of traditional football powers to the world stage.
Uruguay’s Clinical Triumph Over Peru
In Montevideo, Uruguay defeated Peru 3–0 to officially secure their place in 2026. Goals from Rodrigo Aguirre, Giorgian de Arrascaeta, and Federico Viñas delivered a dominant and disciplined performance. Under coach Marcelo Bielsa’s direction, Uruguay blended attacking ambition with defensive resilience. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Colombia’s Resounding Return
After missing the 2022 tournament, Colombia made a triumphant comeback with a 3–0 win over Bolivia. James Rodríguez opened the scoring in the 31st minute, followed by goals from Jhon Córdoba and Juan Fernando Quintero. Their collective display helped Colombia secure their seventh World Cup appearance. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Paraguay’s Long-Awaited Comeback
Paraguay has qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 2010 after a hard-fought 0–0 draw against Ecuador in Asunción. Their defense-first strategy paid off, ending a 16-year absence and igniting celebrations across the nation. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
What This Means for South American Football
With Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay all booked for 2026, South America now holds six of its direct qualification slots. Remaining teams—Venezuela, Peru, and Bolivia—must contend for the few remaining playoff places, underscoring how fiercely contested CONMEBOL qualifiers remain. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
FAQs
Q: Which South American teams have qualified so far for 2026?
Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay.
Q: How did Uruguay qualify?
By beating Peru 3–0, with goals from Aguirre, de Arrascaeta, and Viñas. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Q: Why is Colombia’s qualification significant?
Because they missed the 2022 World Cup and came back strong with a dominant win. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Q: What’s notable about Paraguay’s return?
It ends a 16-year absence; their last appearance was in 2010. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Q: Who still has a chance through the playoff spots?
Venezuela, Peru, and Bolivia are still vying for intercontinental playoff opportunities. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
With three new additions joining Argentina, Brazil, and Ecuador, South America continues writing its storied World Cup legacy—adding fresh chapters as the continent heads into the expanded 2026 tournament.
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