A stunning goal from Vinicius Júnior propelled Brazil into the 2026 World Cup, marking a noteworthy home debut for Carlo Ancelotti as head coach. The former Real Madrid tandem proved instrumental in Brazil’s 1-0 triumph over Paraguay in Sao Paulo. Later that day, Ecuador also clinched a spot in the global tournament following a goalless draw with Peru.
Ecuador boasts 25 points, tied with Brazil, but occupies second place due to more victories. Both nations trail Argentina, the group leader, by ten points but hold a substantial lead of over six points ahead of the seventh-place team with only two matches left in the qualification phase. For South America, the top six teams in the standings automatically secure spots in the 48-team World Cup.
Chile’s hopes for a World Cup appearance were dashed after a 2-0 loss to Bolivia, marking their third consecutive absence. The defeat led to head coach Ricardo Gareca losing his position. Meanwhile, Uruguay bolstered their standing with a 2-0 victory against Venezuela, thanks to goals from Rodrigo Aguirre and Giorgian de Arrascaeta, inching closer to direct qualification with 24 points.
Venezuela finds itself one point ahead of Bolivia, competing for seventh place, which offers a chance for an intercontinental playoff berth. On the other hand, Lionel Messi experienced a reserved evening as Argentina drew 1-1 with Colombia in Buenos Aires. Colombia took the lead with Luis Díaz’s 24th-minute strike, whereas Enzo Fernandez’s red card left the Argentinian fans at Monumental de Nunez Stadium disheartened. However, Thiago Almada managed a late equalizer in the 81st minute, leveling the score.
In Sao Paulo, Ancelotti faced fan pressure after a scoreless draw with Ecuador, having focused on defensive tactics throughout. On his 66th birthday, the Italian coach sought to revitalize his squad into an aggressive force at NeoQuímica Arena. Amid a throng of 46,000 fans, including NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo displaying a “Parabens, Carleto” banner, Brazil sought redemption.
Gabriel Martinelli replaced midfielder Gerson and excelled, while Raphinha returned from suspension, creating problems for Paraguay’s defense. Vinicius Júnior frequently took center stage as a forward alongside Matheus Cunha. A Paraguayan defensive mistake and a low cross from Cunha allowed Brazil’s new No. 10 to notch the game’s sole goal. “It is for you,” Vinicius remarked to Ancelotti in celebration.
The match was illustrative of Brazil’s intent to play more aggressively, unlike their previous qualification matches. Vinicius emphasized the importance of the victory for the fans and vowed to use the additional time for improvements, noting his absence in Brazil’s next game due to suspension.
Following the final whistle, a montage of Ancelotti’s early days was played around the stadium, sparking raucous celebrations akin to a team revival. As the crowd celebrated, Ancelotti spoke about the tactical balance, including four strikers on the field. He envisaged Matheus Cunha’s playmaking role as Neymar’s potential position should he regain full fitness, stressing the importance of all players contributing effort and sacrifice.
Chile’s once-celebrated golden era, which clinched two Copa America titles in 2015 and 2016, is now officially over, with only veteran Alexis Sánchez remaining. Sánchez apologized for missing the World Cup entry, acknowledging the end of an era and the need to pivot toward the future.
Bolivia’s victory came with goals from Miguel Terceros and Enzo Monteiro at their high-altitude El Alto Stadium near La Paz. Post-match, a dismayed Gareca confirmed his departure from the Chilean side after a 17-match tenure, including four wins, four draws, and nine losses.
The final rounds of South American qualifiers wrap up in September. Uruguay and Paraguay require just one additional point to confirm their respective qualifications. Uruguay’s next fixtures include matches against Peru and Chile, while Paraguay confronts Ecuador and Peru. Colombia, currently sixth with 22 points, will fight to keep their World Cup hopes alive against Bolivia and Venezuela, while Bolivia seeks to rejoin the World Cup for the first time since 1994 through matches against Colombia and Brazil. Venezuela’s remaining encounters are against Argentina and Colombia.