Argentina Secures Spot in 2026 World Cup as Defending Champion

Defending champion Argentina qualified for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday when Bolivia failed to beat Uruguay.

Argentina leads South American qualifying and is set to host its archrival Brazil later today at the Monumental de Nunez Stadium.

The South American region has six guaranteed spots in the World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Argentina secured one of the six spots when seventh-placed Bolivia drew 0-0 with Uruguay in El Alto.

With the backing of Lionel Messi, a three-time World Cup winner, Argentina (28 points) has been at the top of South American qualifying from the beginning, overcoming challenges including major away victories against Brazil and Uruguay.

However, coach Lionel Scaloni has opted not to field the 37-year-old Messi in multiple matches, which raises questions about whether the star will participate in next year’s tournament.

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Reporting by The Associated Press.

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