Argentina Secures World Cup Spot as Chile Struggles

Argentina has secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup after defeating Chile 1-0, with Julián Álvarez scoring the decisive goal, further strengthening their lead in South American qualifiers. Chile's hopes for qualification and financial stability are threatened as they remain five points behind the playoff spot with few matches left. Venezuela improved its chances for a playoff berth by beating Bolivia 2-0, while Colombia and Peru's goalless draw left Colombia in sixth place and Peru facing a challenging qualification path. The expanded World Cup format has intensified competition, with traditional powers like Argentina leading and teams like Chile struggling both on and off the field. Ecuador and Brazil remain close to securing automatic berths as the qualifiers progress. Economic implications loom for federations whose teams fail to qualify.