The Conmebol 2026 World Cup Qualifiers conclude today as Bolivia faces Brazil on Matchday 18. Brazil has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, while Bolivia is fighting to secure a spot in the intercontinental playoffs.
Six teams have already qualified directly: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Ecuador. One playoff spot remains, with Venezuela (7th place, 18 points) and Bolivia (8th place, 17 points) vying for that final opportunity.
Bolivia aims to qualify for the World Cup for the fourth time, the first since USA 1994. Venezuela, seeking their first-ever qualification, makes the playoff spot highly competitive.
What if Bolivia beats Brazil?
If Bolivia wins, they move to 20 points, putting them in a strong position for the playoff. They would need Venezuela to either draw or lose against Colombia to secure their spot.
In their last match, Bolivia lost 3-0 against Colombia. (Gabriel Aponte/Getty Images)
What if Bolivia and Brazil draw?
A draw would mean Venezuela secures the playoff spot irrespective of their match against Colombia. Venezuela has a better goal difference (-7) compared to Bolivia’s -19, giving them the edge in tiebreakers.
What if Bolivia loses to Brazil?
A loss would eliminate Bolivia from playoff contention, ending their chance to qualify until the next World Cup cycle in 2030.