Messi says farewell, Brazil win, three more teams book WC tickets, as only one question remains

The South American 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers have slowly but surely begun to unfold. Moreover, after Argentina, Brazil, and Ecuador, last night's qualifying games provided us with three more WC participants, as Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay officially booked their tickets for the USA, Canada, and Mexico!

The first two teams thrashed Peru and Bolivia, respectively, 3-0 each, while La Albirroja salvaged a goalless draw against Ecuador.

This way, all six spots that lead directly from South American qualifiers to the World Cup are filled, and now only one question remains: Who'll end up seventh and secure a place in the inter-confederation play-offs - Venezuela or Bolivia?

Good old, chuff Luis Suarez: Uruguayan spat at the opposite coach

At the moment, the former have much better chances. They have a one-point advantage over the rivals, and in the last qualifying round, they'll host Colombia. On the other hand, Bolivia also play at home, but against Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil. Both games are scheduled for Wednesday at 02.30.

If the teams finish with equal points, Venezuela will also advance thanks to a much better goal difference.

Finally, in two not-so-important - at least in terms of result - games, Argentina and Brazil noted convincing victories - 3-0 each.

The ruling World Champions beat Venezuela in Buenos Aires, and the match will be remembered as the last game Lionel Messi played for the national team in his homeland. The 38-year-old marked the duel with a brace, while Lautaro Martinez netted as well.

On the other hand, Carletto's Brazil is starting to look much better than when the Italian arrived three months ago. Last night, the Selecao crushed Peru at Maracana Stadium, behind Estevao, Lucas Paqueta, and Bruno Guimaraes' goals, showing they'll be strong contenders for the world crown next year.

2026 FIFA WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS - SOUTH AMERICA

Friday

Argentina - Venezuela 3-0 (1-0)

/Messi 39, 80, Lautaro 76/

Colombia - Bolivia 3-0 (1-0)

/Rodriguez 31, Cordoba 74, Quintero 83/

Paraguay - Ecuador 0-0

Uruguay - Peru 3-0 (1-0)

/Aguirre 14, De Arrascaeta 58, Vinas 80/

Brazil - Chile 3-0 (1-0)

/Estevao 38, Paqueta 72, Guimaraes 76/

Wednesday

02.00: (3.10) Ecuador (3.05) Argentina (2.50)

02.30: (4.60) Bolivia (3.60) Brazil (1.80)

02.30: (3.35) Chile (3.15) Uruguay (2.30)

02.30: (2.35) Peru (3.10) Paraguay (3.30)

02.30: (2.65) Venezuela (3.05) Colombia (2.90)

***odds are subject to change***