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WHAT WERE THE RESULTS OF THE 2026 WORLD CUP QUALIFYING MATCHES?

We'll tell you how the tickets were determined, which matches they influenced, and the information every fan should know.

Overview of the Qualifiers


The qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup brought plenty of excitement, with 48 teams in the final stage of the tournament and several changes to the confederation slots. In South America (CONMEBOL), the format remained a round-robin, but the number of direct qualification spots increased to six and a half: six direct spots and one for the intercontinental play-off.


This meant that several matches that were previously considered early finals now offered a bit more leeway to qualify. However, drama was not lacking: heart-stopping matches, comebacks, and disappointments marked this phase. Some key examples from Matchday 16 include Bolivia 2-0 Chile, Uruguay 2-0 Venezuela, Argentina 1-1 Colombia, Brazil 1-0 Paraguay, and Peru 0-0 Ecuador. Below, we show you the most outstanding results, the teams that qualified, those that were eliminated, and some statistics and interesting facts that are essential to any football discussion.

Key results of the South American phase


Matchday 16 that defined a lot


Matchday 16 of the South American qualifiers was decisive for many. These were the most relevant results:

  • Bolivia 2-0 Chile: A historic victory in La Paz that practically eliminated Chile.

  • Uruguay 2-0 Venezuela: La Celeste practically secured their qualification with solid football.

  • Argentina 1-1 Colombia: An intense match where both teams showed their strengths.

  • Brazil 1-0 Paraguay: A close match, but enough for Brazil to secure their qualification.

  • Peru 0-0 Ecuador: A goalless draw that kept both teams mathematically in contention.


These results left teams like Uruguay, Brazil, and Argentina very well positioned, while Chile, Venezuela, and Peru were left on the brink. What was striking was the battle in the second group: Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia were fighting point by point. The final matchday and the dramatic finishes. On matchday 18, the tension was palpable. Ecuador beat Argentina 1-0 with a goal from Enner Valencia, a result that secured them a direct spot in the World Cup. Bolivia surprised everyone by winning 1-0 against Brazil and advanced to the playoffs. Colombia thrashed Venezuela 6-3 in a match that was a goal fest. Meanwhile, Chile couldn't overcome their poor start and were eliminated. Peru was also eliminated despite managing a draw against Paraguay. In the end, Argentina finished first in the standings, followed by Ecuador, Brazil, and Uruguay, all with direct qualification. Bolivia secured the half-spot for the playoffs.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

Fun facts and cool statistics


Remembering numbers that catch your eye


Those of us who love football enjoy watching goals as much as reading facts we didn't know. Here are some key statistics:

  • Luis Díaz completed the most dribbles in the qualifiers: 41 in total.

  • Ecuador only conceded two goals throughout the entire qualifying phase: a defensive record for the region.

  • Bolivia earned the most points at altitude (over 80% of their points).

  • Colombia finished undefeated at home, with five wins and three draws.

  • Brazil had the lowest percentage of goals per game in qualifiers since 1998.


Some streaks were also broken. For example, Paraguay lost at home to Ecuador for the first time in qualifiers. And Bolivia managed to beat Brazil after 30 years without doing so in official competitions. Furthermore, the change in format was noticeable: more teams with a chance meant more matches played until the end.


What do the final standings say?


The final standings left the giants as leaders, but there were surprises. Argentina led with authority. Ecuador, with a great defense, finished second. Brazil was more discreet but efficient. Uruguay improved as the tournament progressed. Colombia finished strong and secured its qualification. Bolivia managed to get into the playoffs with a surprising finish. Chile, Peru, Venezuela, and Paraguay were eliminated.


The table also reflected what had been said before: South American football is more competitive than ever. History alone is no longer enough; Now consistency and strategy are also needed. The qualifiers for 2026 showed that the margin for error is minimal.

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