Brazil secured their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 1-0 victory over Paraguay on June 10 at the Neo Química Arena in São Paulo. The winning goal came in the 44th minute from Vinicius Jr., who tapped in a low cross from Manchester United’s Matheus Cunha. This marked the first win under new coach Carlo Ancelotti, who praised his team’s focus and resilience. The victory, combined with Venezuela’s loss to Uruguay, guaranteed Brazil a top-six finish in the South American qualifiers, ensuring automatic qualification.
Ecuador also booked their place in the tournament after holding Peru to a goalless draw in Lima. The point was sufficient to mathematically secure their qualification, marking Ecuador’s fifth World Cup appearance.
Uruguay strengthened their position with a 2-0 win over Venezuela, with goals from Rodrigo Aguirre and Giorgian de Arrascaeta, moving them closer to qualification. Paraguay remains on the brink, needing just one point from their remaining matches to qualify for their first World Cup since 2010.
Argentina, already qualified, drew 1-1 with Colombia in Buenos Aires. Chile’s campaign ended with a 2-0 defeat to Bolivia, officially eliminating them from contention for the third consecutive World Cup.
With two rounds left in the South American qualifiers, the top six teams earn direct entry to the World Cup, while the seventh-placed team will enter an intercontinental playoff.
Current standings of qualified teams include Argentina, Brazil, and Ecuador, with Uruguay, Paraguay, and Colombia vying for the remaining direct spots. Venezuela and Bolivia compete for the playoff position.
