World Cup qualifiers: Argentina and Brazil fall, Uruguay parties

Everything is settled as far as the World Cup qualifiers in South America are concerned. Several matches, some decisive, were played during the night. Argentina, already certain of a World Cup pass months ago, was beaten, away, by Ecuador: 1-0 the final, Enner Valencia’s goal on a penalty kick. Dry Lautaro Martinez, on the field for about an hour. Obviously, absent was Messi who gave his farewell to the’Albiceleste (at least as far as World Cup qualifying matches are concerned).

Brazil also falls. Seleçao, the other qualifying nation, lost to Bolivia (1-0), which, thanks to this success, won the chance to play in the playoff to go to the World Cup. Bitterly saddened Greenoro coach Ancelotti who expected a different test from his players, especially those he gave a chance to show off.

Mathematically qualified Uruguay, which only needed a draw, away from home, with Chile (0-0 final). A’huge satisfaction for coach Bielsa. Also celebrating were Paraguay (1-0 against Peru, Galarza’s goal) and Colombia (6-3 away from home with Venezuela, in the net, in addition to Cagliari’s Mina, Luis Suarez, a player in force at Sporting Lisbon, author of four goals).

The standings, after 17 rounds played, read: Argentina 38, Ecuador 29, Colombia 28, Uruguay 28, Brazil 28, Paraguay 28 (all qualified directly for the World Cup) and Bolivia, with 20 points, in the playoffs. Eliminated are Venezuela (18 points), Peru (12) and Chile (11).