As the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign in South America nears its final third, several key questions are shaping the future of the teams vying for a spot in the tournament. Here are the major concerns for the region’s national teams:

Argentina:

• Is the golden generation nearing its end?
  Despite Argentina’s solid standing and 25 points, there is a sense of unease about the team’s future. Ángel Di María’s retirement looms large, and Messi’s international future remains uncertain. Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, faces the challenge of transitioning away from its best-ever side. Can Messi, Lautaro Martínez, and Julián Álvarez operate effectively together, or is it time for a new strategy?

Uruguay:

• Has the storm passed for Marcelo Bielsa’s team?
  Uruguay has endured a turbulent period with injuries, player discontent, and disappointing results. But recent victories over Colombia and Brazil have seen the team recover. The big question now is whether Uruguay can maintain this momentum and find consistency as they move forward under Bielsa’s leadership.

Ecuador:

• Have they found the missing piece?
  Ecuador’s defensive solidity has been outstanding, but a lack of goal-scoring depth—particularly after Enner Valencia’s veteran status—continues to hamper their progress. Will the return of Gonzalo Plata provide the added offensive spark needed for Ecuador to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup?

Colombia:

• How will coach Néstor Lorenzo react to his first crisis?
  Colombia’s recent form has been concerning, with three losses in their last four matches. Questions surround the roles of key players like James Rodríguez and Jhon Durán, and whether the team can maintain belief and chemistry amid mounting pressure. Will the squad’s depth and talent be enough to push them back to the top?

Brazil:

• What’s stopping Brazil from playing to their potential?
  Despite a wealth of talent, Brazil has struggled to find balance, particularly in midfield. Their frenetic attacking play, often leaving gaps defensively, has resulted in disappointing results. With a talented squad, can coach Dorival Júnior refine the tactical setup and make the most of the team’s potential as they push for qualification?

Paraguay:

• How have they turned things around?
  After a disastrous start to the campaign, Paraguay’s remarkable turnaround is a testament to the effectiveness of coach Gustavo Alfaro. Their defensive solidity and improved attacking options, bolstered by Julio Enciso’s return, have put them in contention for their first World Cup since 2010. Can they maintain this momentum and clinch the final qualification spots?

Bolivia:

• Can they make it to 2026 despite a shaky campaign?
  Bolivia has relied on their strength at home in La Paz, but dropped points in recent games have made their path to the 2026 World Cup uncertain. With three more home matches remaining, can they win enough points to secure a playoff spot?

Venezuela:

• Will they recover from a disastrous second half of the campaign?
  After a strong start, Venezuela has fallen off drastically, struggling with injuries and lack of firepower. Despite strong home form, can they find the consistency needed in their remaining matches to stay in the hunt for a playoff spot?

Chile:

• Can Gareca perform a miracle?
  Coach Ricardo Gareca’s tenure has been underwhelming so far, but Chile remains within reach of a playoff spot. They face a significant uphill battle, including a crucial match against Bolivia in June. Can Gareca inspire the team to rise from their dismal position and reclaim their spot among South America’s top teams?

Peru:

• Can they overcome the depths of despair?
  Peru’s qualification hopes are all but extinguished after a series of dismal performances. With little offensive threat and a dysfunctional system, they are currently at the bottom of the table. Can Fossati make the necessary changes to at least salvage some pride in the remaining rounds?

As the qualification campaign moves into its final phase, these questions will shape the destiny of South America’s teams as they battle for a spot in the 2026 World Cup.