The Third Round of South American Qualifiers: Heating Up
The third round of the South American qualifiers was a heated affair, with several results that have tightened the standings.
As the South American qualifiers have only just begun, no one can claim a secure top spot, nor can anyone predict the six direct qualifiers.
This third round of the South American qualifiers demonstrated that this region is the most competitive among national teams worldwide.
Following the completion of the fourth round next Tuesday with five matches, CONMEBOL‘s schedule marks one last double round of qualifiers in 2023 to be held between Thursday, November 16, and Tuesday, November 21.
After that, the South American journey to the World Cup will only resume in September 2024, as the early quarters of the following year will be focused on the Copa America.
The World Cup, hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States, will kick off between the second and third week of June 2026 and culminate with the final match on July 19.
Third Round of South American Qualifiers
Some of the most thrilling matches in the third round of the South American qualifiers included Uruguay’s 2-2 draw with Colombia.
It was a thrilling match in Barranquilla, featuring an emotional 2-2 result. After James Rodríguez’s stunning volley goal, Cristian Olivera equalized for the Celeste with a header from a corner kick early in the second half.
However, the home team regained the lead with Mateus Uribe’s goal, which was disputed due to a potential handball by Rodríguez. In the end, Darwin Núñez leveled the score from the penalty spot.
Another unexpected match was Ecuador’s visit to Bolivia, where El Tri took advantage of the struggling team led by Gustavo Costas to secure a victory.
Kendry Páez, at just 16 years old, became the youngest player to score in the South American qualifiers, putting Ecuador in the lead. Bolivia managed to equalize thanks to Rodrigo Ramallo, with only 7 minutes left in the match.
But Cristian Garay found the net in the sixth minute of added time, as Kevin Rodríguez capitalized on a defensive lapse to seal the 2-1 victory.
Meanwhile, Argentina continued its perfect run, securing its third victory. The Argentinians scored the only goal just 3 minutes into the match with a stunning volley by Nicolás Otamendi following a corner kick from Rodrigo De Paul.
Another noteworthy match in the third round of the South American qualifiers was Chile’s clear victory at home against Peru.
La Roja was superior in the Pacific Classic but had to wait until the final quarter of an hour to secure their first goal. The goals were scored by Diego Valdés and an own goal by Marcelino Núñez.
Perhaps the surprise of the third round of the South American qualifiers was Venezuela’s draw against Brazil.
Brazil was dominant but failed to seal the match against Venezuela, relinquishing its lead in the qualifiers.
La Vinotinto found an equalizer with a spectacular goal, earning a spot in direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
The fourth round of CONMEBOL qualifiers will take place next Tuesday, October 17:
- 18:00: Venezuela vs. Chile
- 19:30: Paraguay vs. Bolivia
- 20:30: Ecuador vs. Colombia
- 21:00: Uruguay vs. Brazil
- 23:00: Peru vs. Argentina
(Argentine Time)
