World Cup 2026 Qualifiers South American Zone

Ed Bradley

2 min read

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31-12-2024

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The race to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America is heating up, and the South American qualifying stage promises to be as dramatic as ever. With the expanded tournament featuring 48 teams, the competition for a place among the continent's representatives will be fierce. Let's delve into what we know about the upcoming qualifiers.

Format and Schedule

The South American qualifying round, CONMEBOL's contribution to the World Cup, will follow a familiar round-robin format. Each of the ten South American nations will play each other home and away, accumulating a total of 18 matches per team. This grueling schedule is expected to begin in March 2025 and conclude in November 2025. The exact dates and match pairings will be announced by CONMEBOL in due course.

The Contenders

The usual suspects are expected to dominate the conversation. Brazil, with their rich history and abundance of talent, are always considered favorites. Argentina, fresh off their World Cup victory, will be eager to maintain their momentum. Other strong contenders include Uruguay, Colombia, and Ecuador, each possessing the quality to challenge for a top spot. However, the unpredictable nature of South American football means that even teams traditionally considered underdogs could spring a surprise or two. Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Bolivia will be determined to upset the established order and secure a coveted World Cup berth.

Increased Stakes

With more spots available at the 2026 World Cup, the battle for qualification will be more intense. While the top six teams are expected to qualify automatically, the remaining teams will likely need to fight for a spot in the intercontinental playoffs. This adds an extra layer of complexity and drama to the already competitive qualifying process.

Key Factors

Several factors will influence the outcome of the qualifiers. Home advantage will be crucial, as the passionate South American fans are known to create an electrifying atmosphere. Tactical flexibility and the ability to adapt to different playing styles will also prove important in a region known for its diverse and unpredictable football. Finally, injury and squad depth will undoubtedly play a significant role in determining which teams rise to the occasion.

Looking Ahead

The South American World Cup qualifiers promise to deliver thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. The blend of established giants and ambitious underdogs guarantees high stakes throughout the competition. As the qualifying campaign approaches, fans across the continent – and the world – will be anticipating an electrifying spectacle of skill, passion, and intense competition for a coveted spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.