The stage is set for an intense international window as the first round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers begins this week. With just over a year until the tournament kicks off, the stakes are exceptionally high for South American teams battling for a chance to qualify for the prestigious event set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The 2026 World Cup will be unlike any other, featuring 48 teams, and all eyes are on the CONMEBOL qualifiers as Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and others vie for direct berths.
As of March 20, 2025, teams at the top of the CONMEBOL standings include Argentina, Colombia, Uruguay, Brazil, Ecuador, and Paraguay. These six teams are currently positioned to secure direct qualification to the World Cup, while Bolivia is in seventh place, giving them a chance to enter the intercontinental playoff.
Argentina, the current world champions, heads into this window eager to reclaim their dominant form after a rocky conclusion to 2024. They experienced only two wins in their last five matches, ending the year with a disappointing 2-1 loss to Paraguay followed by a narrow 1-0 victory against Peru at La Bombonera. With key players like Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez sidelined due to injuries, Argentina’s squad sees a mix of seasoned and new talent. Germán Pezzella, the only domestic-based player, joins five Atletico Madrid teammates as they prepare for crucial qualifying matches.
Bolivia, however, is looking to end its poor run, having gone winless in three preceding matches. However, they enjoyed a positive streak with three wins before their recent struggles. Under coach Óscar Villegas, Bolivia seeks to capitalize on their squad's potential, which includes twelve domestic players and several debutants eager to prove themselves.
Brazil, under pressure from fans following a series of unsatisfactory performances, finished the year with two draws—1-1 against Venezuela and the same against Uruguay. Coach Dorival Júnior's position has come under scrutiny as Brazil cannot afford further slip-ups. With a crucial matchup against Colombia in the horizon, the Seleção aims to rediscover its winning rhythm before taking on arch-rivals Argentina next week. The team will also welcome the talents of fresh faces, including four uncapped players eager to leave their mark.
Meanwhile, Chile aims to build on their recent momentum after snapping a seven-match winless streak with a 4-2 victory over Venezuela in November. Their squad sees 11 domestic-based players and new additions who could potentially earn their first caps. Chile’s recent success is a good omen as they continue their pursuit of a World Cup return.
Colombia, after failing to qualify for the last World Cup, currently sits in a good position within the standings, bolstered by a recent performance that saw them narrowly miss out on wins. November saw them lose two consecutive matches, yet they field a team anxious to qualify for 2026. They also welcomed new talents with several players anticipating their first senior caps.
Ecuador started the qualifiers under a cloud of controversy due to a points deduction from the Byron Castillo eligibility case, but they have mounted a formidable response, climbing to third in the standings with a few impressive wins. With their recent victories over Bolivia and Colombia, Ecuador has proven they can be serious competitors, led by their new coach, Sebastián Beccacece.
Meanwhile, Paraguay is experiencing a resurgence, currently riding a six-match unbeaten streak that has reignited interest in their national team. A recent triumph over Argentina has fueled high hopes amongst supporters. Uruguay, on the other hand, looks to regain momentum after an erratic performance record in their recent qualifiers.
The upcoming fixtures promise to be thrilling as national pride and aspirations of World Cup glory hang in the balance. Matches kick off on March 20 with Paraguay facing Chile, followed by Brazil clashing with Colombia and other matchups including Peru battling Bolivia and Ecuador taking on Venezuela. The highly anticipated match between Uruguay and Argentina will be a highlight of this international window.
As the excitement builds, fans across South America and around the world will tune in to watch their teams fight for honor and a place in football history. SBS and SBS On Demand will provide live coverage of this action, setting the stage for unforgettable moments as teams aim for a spot in the upcoming World Cup.
