Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay Seal World Cup 2026 Spots as Messi Bids Emotional Farewell in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, Sep 5 (TTP): On a dramatic night in South America, three nations—Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay—booked their tickets to the FIFA World Cup 2026, while Lionel Messi lit up Argentina’s farewell match in Buenos Aires with a vintage brace. At the Maracana, Brazil’s teenage prodigy Estevão stole the show in a commanding win over Chile. The latest round of qualifiers has reshaped the South American picture, highlighting both experience and rising talent on the road to North America.
Colombia End Drought with Commanding Win
In Barranquilla, Colombia ended their painful wait to qualify for football’s grandest stage after missing out on Qatar 2022. In front of a jubilant home crowd, they defeated Bolivia 3-0, a result that sent waves of relief and celebration across the country.
James Rodríguez, the 2014 World Cup Golden Boot winner, struck the opener and etched his name into history by becoming Colombia’s all-time leading scorer in World Cup qualifying. His strike, reminiscent of the form that once made him one of the world’s most feared playmakers, set the tone for the night.
Moments later, Jhon Durán doubled the lead with a composed finish before veteran midfielder Juan Quintero added the third, sealing an emphatic win.
Speaking after the match, Rodríguez expressed his joy: “This is not just qualification, it’s redemption for us. Colombia belongs at the World Cup, and tonight we showed that spirit. The pain of missing the last tournament has fueled us, and now we are back.”
Uruguay’s Relentless March Continues
In Montevideo, Uruguay demonstrated why they remain one of South America’s most consistent forces. A 3-0 victory over Peru secured their passage to their fifth consecutive finals, underlining their balance of steel and creativity.
Striker Rodrigo Aguirre struck early to settle nerves before setting up Giorgian De Arrascaeta, who dictated the tempo and added Uruguay’s second. The rout was completed by Federico Viñas, who buried Peru’s hopes with a late strike.
Head coach Marcelo Bielsa praised his squad’s focus: “We knew this was a decisive match, and the players responded with maturity. This is a team that has grown together, and we look forward to representing Uruguay with pride in 2026.”
For Peru, the defeat was crushing, leaving them on the brink of elimination after struggling to replicate the form that saw them reach the 2018 tournament in Russia.
Paraguay Return After 16-Year Wait
Paraguay, known for their defensive grit, ended a 16-year exile from the World Cup by securing qualification despite a goalless draw against Ecuador.
The clean sheet marked their sixth under coach Gustavo Alfaro, whose pragmatic approach has rebuilt Paraguay’s identity. While the draw wasn’t spectacular, the result was historic, ensuring their return to football’s biggest stage for the first time since South Africa 2010.
Alfaro highlighted the resilience of his squad: “This qualification is the result of hard work and sacrifice. Paraguay is back, and this team deserves to be celebrated.”
Messi’s Farewell Glitters in Buenos Aires
At the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, all eyes were on Lionel Messi, who may have played his final competitive game on home soil. The 38-year-old captain scored twice in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Venezuela, sandwiched around a strike from Lautaro Martínez.
The night was emotional for fans and the player alike. Messi equaled Cristiano Ronaldo’s tally of 36 World Cup qualifying goals, moving into joint-second place in the all-time charts. More importantly, he gave Argentina supporters the perfect farewell performance.
Messi admitted he was overwhelmed: “There are so many emotions. I have experienced everything on this field. Finishing like this, in front of my people, is what I always dreamed of. Whether I make it to 2026 or not, this is a moment I will never forget.”
Argentina, already qualified, continue to dominate the qualifiers, while Venezuela’s defeat leaves them battling with Bolivia for the intercontinental play-off spot.
Brazil’s Prodigy Estevão Dazzles at the Maracanã
Meanwhile, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil showcased both flair and depth in a 3-0 victory over Chile. At the heart of the win was 18-year-old Estevão, making his first senior start at the Maracanã.
The teenager announced himself with a dazzling goal, combining fearless dribbling with clinical finishing. His strike was followed by goals from Lucas Paquetá and Bruno Guimarães, sealing another confident performance for the five-time world champions.
Brazil coach Dorival Júnior praised his young star: “Estevão represents the future of Brazilian football. He plays with joy, courage, and creativity. We know we have a special player in our hands.”
For Chile, the loss leaves them clinging to slim qualification hopes, needing a string of positive results in the final rounds.
Implications for World Cup 2026
With these results, Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil are now firmly on the road to World Cup 2026, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For Colombia and Paraguay, the qualification marks a return to the world stage after years of disappointment. For Argentina and Brazil, the challenge will be maintaining dominance while preparing for generational transitions.
For Messi, the story remains unfinished. While he admitted that age makes participation in 2026 unlikely, he has yet to close the door fully. Fans worldwide will wait to see if the legend graces one more World Cup.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The latest qualifiers highlighted the rich tapestry of South American football—from Messi’s emotional farewell to Estevão’s rise as Brazil’s next big star. The return of Colombia and Paraguay adds fresh energy to the continent’s representation, while Uruguay and Argentina continue to prove their pedigree. With Brazil’s young talents emerging, World Cup 2026 promises to be a spectacle where tradition meets transformation.
South America, once again, will arrive in North America not just to participate but to contend.