Messi hits brace as Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay qualify for 2026 World Cup

On Thursday, in heartfelt scenes in Buenos Aires, Lionel Messi scored two goals for Argentina, while Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay secured their spots for next year's World Cup alongside the defending champions.

Argentina had already guaranteed their place in the North American tournament, with Messi finding the net in the 39th and 80th minutes during a 3-0 victory over Venezuela at home.

In front of an enthusiastic crowd of 80,000 at the Mas Monumental stadium, Messi shone brightly in what marked his last home qualifier for Argentina, adding to his legacy as an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.

Although he will be 39 by the time of the World Cup, Messi is expected to play a crucial role in helping Lionel Scaloni’s team defend their title.

Before the match, Messi enjoyed quality time with his three sons, and his father, Jorge, was also present to celebrate this special event.

Uruguay secured their place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico by defeating Peru 3-0 at home, while Colombia similarly triumphed over Bolivia with the same scoreline.

Additionally, Paraguay reached the finals for 2026 after managing a goalless home draw against Ecuador, who had already qualified. Brazil had previously booked their spot as well.

Once more, Bielsa shines

At a full Estadio Centenario in Montevideo, where 60,000 fans gathered, Rodrigo Aguirre opened the scoring for Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay just 14 minutes into the match.

The Club America player made an impressive leap to head the ball powerfully into the top corner, leaving Peru’s goalkeeper Pedro Gallese with no chance.

Having only needed a draw to qualify, the Uruguayan team, World Cup champions in 1930 and 1950, successfully sent their charismatic veteran coach, Bielsa, back to the tournament once again.

At 70 years old, he has now led three different teams to qualify for the World Cup.

When Bielsa became Uruguay’s coach in 2023, many were excited and hopeful, but a disappointing qualification process has diminished that optimism.

Given that six out of the 10 CONMEBOL teams earn automatic qualification for 2026, with an additional team advancing to an intercontinental playoff, qualification seemed likely.

Currently, Venezuela sits in seventh, with one qualifier remaining.

Just before the hour mark, Giorgian de Arrascaeta extended Uruguay's lead by scoring from close range, creating a festive atmosphere in the Uruguayan capital.

Federico Vinas added a third goal with ten minutes to spare.

Colombia secured their spot in next summer’s tournament by comfortably defeating Bolivia.

The 34-year-old James Rodriguez, known for his rise during the 2014 World Cup and previously with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, scored just after the half-hour.

Jhon Cordoba put any late tension to rest with a goal in the 74th minute, and Juan Fernando Quintero followed up with a third for his team.

Similarly, Paraguay needed just a draw to qualify while playing against Ecuador.

They accomplished their goal by finishing the match in a goalless tie, marking their ninth World Cup appearance, but their first since 2010.