Staff Reporter
SIX South American nations have qualified for the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay and Uruguay securing direct places in what will be the largest edition of the global tournament to date.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place from 11 June to 19 July 2026 and will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States. It will be the first World Cup staged across three countries and the first to feature an expanded 48-team format, up from 32.
The South American qualifying campaign, organised by the Confederation of South American Football (CONMEBOL), offered six automatic qualification spots and one intercontinental play-off place. It was also the first regional qualifying process to begin for the 2026 tournament, with Paraguay’s match against Peru marking the opening fixture of the global qualifiers.
Reigning world champions Argentina head into the tournament as one of the strongest contenders after winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Led by Lionel Scaloni and spearheaded by Lionel Messi, Argentina topped the South American qualifying standings and will be aiming to defend their title in North America.
Brazil, the only nation to have appeared at every World Cup, also booked their place and will extend their record to a 23rd appearance. Despite finishing fifth in qualifying, the five-time champions remain among the favourites as they continue their pursuit of a sixth title.
Colombia return to the World Cup after missing the 2022 edition, having finished third in qualifying. Led by Luis Díaz and James Rodríguez, they secured their place with a strong campaign that included a decisive 3-0 win over Bolivia.
Ecuador continued their upward trajectory by finishing second in the standings, despite starting the campaign with a points deduction. Under coach Sebastián Beccacece, La Tri conceded just two goals in his 12 matches in charge, highlighting their defensive strength.
Paraguay secured their return to the global stage for the first time since 2010, finishing sixth in the standings. Their campaign included notable victories over Brazil and Argentina, while key players such as Julio Enciso and Miguel Almirón are expected to lead their challenge in 2026.
Uruguay also qualified directly after finishing fourth, continuing their streak of World Cup appearances. Under coach Marcelo Bielsa, La Celeste will rely on a new generation led by Federico Valverde following the international retirement of veterans Luis Suárez and Edinson Cavani.
The six teams join host nations Canada, Mexico and the United States, along with defending champions Argentina and other qualified nations, in what is expected to be the most expansive and competitive World Cup in history.
Photos: FIFA
