South American World Cup Qualifiers: Historic Qualification Race Concludes with Six Nations Bound for 2026

Unprecedented Qualification Format

The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers have introduced a new format with expanded opportunities for South American teams. The tournament, set to be hosted across Mexico, United States, and Canada, will feature more teams than ever before, with CONMEBOL receiving seven spots – six direct qualification places and one playoff spot.

Current Standings and Qualified Teams

Argentina continues to dominate the qualification table with 35 points, while Ecuador and Brazil follow with 25 points each. Uruguay and Paraguay are tied at 24 points, with Uruguay holding fourth place due to superior goal difference (+7 compared to Paraguay’s +3).

Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay have joined Argentina, Brazil, and Ecuador as the latest teams to secure their spots in the World Cup. Meanwhile, Venezuela and Bolivia remain in contention for the final playoff spot, while Peru and Chile have been eliminated from the competition.

Final Stages and Playoff Scenario

The qualification tournament, which began on September 7, 2023, will continue until September 9, 2025. The intercontinental playoff is scheduled for March 2026, offering one last chance for qualification.

Global Impact

The FIFA World Cup 2026 draw is set to take place on December 5, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, though some qualifying positions will still be undetermined at that time. Currently, besides the three host nations, ten teams have already qualified through their respective confederation qualifiers, including the South American representatives. The remaining 35 spots will be decided in the coming months through regional qualifying tournaments.