World Cup Qualifiers - Matchday 13 Recap

The race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies as South America's top teams battle for crucial points in the qualifiers. With Brazil edging Colombia, Argentina overcoming Uruguay, and Ecuador securing a thrilling win over Venezuela, the latest round of matches displayed high-stakes drama and standout performances. Paraguay and Peru also claimed vital victories, shaking up the standings and setting the stage for even more intense clashes ahead.

Brazil Edges Colombia 2-1 in Crucial World Cup Qualifier

Brazil secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Colombia in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, delivering moments of brilliance while exposing lingering tactical concerns.

Raphinha opened the scoring from the penalty spot, while Vinícius Júnior played a decisive role, earning the penalty and later netting the match-winner. However, Brazil’s heavy reliance on individual talent and the absence of a traditional playmaker like Neymar underscored strategic vulnerabilities.

Second-half substitutions injected fresh energy, with Wesley, Savinho, and Matheus Cunha making an impact in the final third. Despite these promising performances, Brazil must establish a more cohesive tactical identity to navigate tougher challenges ahead. Their upcoming showdown against Argentina in Buenos Aires looms as a critical test.

Argentina Prevails 1-0 Over Uruguay Despite Key Absences

Argentina extended their dominance in the South American qualifiers with a narrow 1-0 win against Uruguay, overcoming the absence of Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez due to injuries. Thiago Almada stepped up in Messi's stead, delivering a stunning second-half goal that secured Argentina’s place atop the standings with 28 points.

While the first half exposed defensive frailties against Uruguay’s relentless press, Argentina regrouped after the break, adopting a more cohesive attacking approach that sealed the win. With just one point needed to confirm their 2026 World Cup qualification, Argentina now turns its attention to a high-stakes clash with Brazil at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

Ecuador Triumphs 2-1 Over Venezuela in Thrilling Contest

Ecuador claimed a thrilling 2-1 victory against Venezuela in Quito, powered by Enner Valencia’s stellar performance. The veteran striker netted both goals at Estadio Casablanca, electrifying the home crowd. However, a missed second-half penalty denied him a hat-trick, adding late drama to the encounter.

Jhonder Cádiz pulled one back for Venezuela in stoppage time, but Ecuador held firm to claim the three points. With this result, Ecuador climbed to second place in the standings, while Venezuela remains in eighth, just outside the playoff zone. Both teams are now preparing for their next crucial qualifiers on Tuesday.

Paraguay Outlasts Chile 1-0 to Extend Unbeaten Streak

Paraguay edged Chile 1-0 in Asunción during the 13th round of the South American qualifiers, with Omar Alderete netting the decisive goal in the 55th minute. This victory extended Paraguay’s unbeaten streak to seven matches in the qualifiers, lifting them to fifth place with 20 points.

Despite Chile's efforts to equalize, including a powerful strike from Darío Osorio that forced a crucial save from Paraguayan goalkeeper Gatito Fernández, they remain in ninth place with just nine points. Chile faces mounting pressure as the qualifiers progress.

Peru Secures 3-1 Victory Over Bolivia to Climb Standings

Peru claimed a vital 3-1 win over Bolivia, climbing off the bottom of the standings with a commanding performance. Controlling nearly 70% possession in the first half, Peru struck early through Andy Polo, who later assisted Paolo Guerrero for a second goal just before halftime.

Bolivia responded in the second half with Miguelito converting a penalty, but Edison Flores sealed Peru's win with a late strike. Now in ninth place, Peru gears up to face Venezuela on Tuesday, while Bolivia, still in seventh, will take on Uruguay the same day.

Standings