While Argentina has already secured its place in the 2026 World Cup, the CONMEBOL qualifying campaign remains highly competitive. A tight race is unfolding behind them, with just three points separating Ecuador in second place from Colombia in sixth. South American qualifiers are typically intense, and this cycle is proving more open than recent years, partly because traditional powerhouses Brazil and Uruguay are currently behind Argentina in the standings.
The situation for Brazil could soon change significantly with Carlo Ancelotti taking over as the national team`s new head coach. Ancelotti faces the challenge of balancing the squad, but unlocking the full potential of players like Raphinha and Vinicius Jr. could significantly boost Brazil`s campaign.
Meanwhile, Venezuela is aiming for its first-ever World Cup appearance. They currently occupy seventh place, which would qualify them for an intercontinental playoff spot. However, they face pressure, being just one point clear of Bolivia, whose last World Cup participation was in the United States in 1994.
Here is the schedule for the upcoming round of qualifying matches:
Schedule
Thursday, June 5
- Ecuador vs. Brazil, 7 p.m. ET
- Paraguay vs. Uruguay, 7 p.m. ET
- Chile vs. Argentina, 9 p.m. ET
Friday, June 6
- Colombia vs. Peru, 4:30 p.m. ET
- Venezuela vs. Bolivia, 6 p.m. ET
Tuesday, June 10
- Bolivia vs. Chile, 4 p.m. ET
- Uruguay vs. Venezuela, 7 p.m. ET
- Argentina vs. Colombia, 8 p.m. ET
- Brazil vs. Paraguay, 8:45 p.m. ET
- Peru vs. Ecuador, 9:30 p.m. ET
