The build-up to the World Cup 2026 is already underway in South America, with the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying campaign ongoing.
The qualification process will see reigning world champions Argentina collide with eternal rivals Brazil, who themselves are the record-holders for most World Cup titles. The likes of Uruguay and Colombia will also be expected to impress, with no shortage of competition among the 10 nations.
South America World Cup 2026 qualifying table standings
| Pos. | Team | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts |
| 1 | Argentina | 12 | 8 | 1 | 3 | +14 | 25 |
| 2 | Uruguay | 12 | 5 | 5 | 2 | +8 | 20 |
| 3 | Ecuador | 12 | 6 | 4 | 2 | +7 | 19 |
| 4 | Colombia | 12 | 5 | 4 | 3 | +5 | 19 |
| 5 | Brazil | 12 | 5 | 3 | 4 | +6 | 18 |
| 6 | Paraguay | 12 | 4 | 5 | 3 | +1 | 17 |
| 7 | Bolivia | 12 | 4 | 1 | 7 | -14 | 13 |
| 8 | Venezuela | 12 | 2 | 6 | 4 | -4 | 12 |
| 9 | Chile | 12 | 2 | 3 | 7 | -11 | 9 |
| 10 | Peru | 12 | 1 | 4 | 7 | -12 | 7 |
The top six teams qualify for the World Cup and the team which finishes in seventh place advances to the inter-confederation play-offs.
The current World Champions, Argentina will be among the favourites to qualify for the World Cup alongside Uruguay. Brazil has a rich history in football but they have been lacking the same “Joga Bonito” of late.
With 6 more matchdays to go, the tournament can become more interesting as there is only a 3 point difference between the 2nd place and the 6th place.
Underwhelming performance from the Selecao
With talents such as Raphinha, Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo at Dorival Junior’s disposal, it has been an underwhelming performance from the Selecao at the International stage. Neymar was also set to return to the National team but had to withdraw because of an injury.
Many former Brazilian legends have also called out the team for not performing well and have publicly said that they do not recognise the Brazil way of football anymore.
Uruguay have performed well under Marcelo Bielsa
While Uruguay have performed well under Marcelo Bielsa who has transformed the team into the next football superpower from South America. It would be safe to say that they are now the second most dangerous team from Latin America.
Argentina who will be having almost the same world cup winning squad will be looking to defeat the arch-rivals with ease. The Argentina squad will also be without the magic of Messi but will still look to stamp their authority on the South American rivalry.
