Author: Serg Atrakhov
After losing 1-1 against Venezuela, Brazil dropped to second place in the qualifying standings for the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, in other matches this round, there were serious battles.
Argentina – Paraguay – 1-0
The reigning world champions, the Argentinians, won a narrow victory over Paraguay. The only goal came in the third minute. Otamendi finished De Paula’s corner kick. Before the break, De Paul could have increased the score, but he hit the post. Messi only entered the field in the second half and was remembered for kicking his pants off just before the final whistle.
Colombia – Uruguay – 2:2
While Argentina and Brazil battle for the top two positions in the table, the other two giants of South American soccer played out a penalty shootout at the Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Melendez. São Paulo player James Rodriguez opened the scoring in the 35th minute. The second half had barely begun when Olivera leveled the score, but five minutes later Uribe put the Colombians ahead again. In the 91st minute, Nunez set up the final score with a penalty – 2:2.
Chile – Peru – 2:0
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The Chileans pressed their opponents throughout the game, but failed to score. For example, Díaz’s goal in the 26th minute was disallowed for offside. The hosts managed to open the scoring after just 30 minutes. After a cross from a corner, Valdes Contreras headed the ball on target at the far post. In injury time, López accidentally scored on his own goal.
Bolivia – Ecuador – 1:2
The spectators in Bolivia saw a real thriller. Paez gave the Ecuadorians the lead before the break. International player Enner Valencia made it 2-0 in the 32nd minute, but the goal was disallowed. And just six minutes later, Ramalho leveled the score – 1:1. The local fans were paralyzed in the hope that their team would score their first points in this round of qualifying, but in the 97th minute Kevin Rodriguez brought victory to Ecuador.