The Race to Qatar: South American World Cup Qualifying Schedule for Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia
The quest for a place in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar is heating up, and the South American qualifying campaign is arguably the most intense and unpredictable in the world. Here's a detailed look at the schedule, key players, and what to expect from Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia in their race to Qatar.
South American World Cup Qualifying: A Battle Royale
The South American qualifying competition is a brutal marathon, not a sprint. Ten teams slug it out over 18 grueling matches, with only the top four securing automatic qualification, while the fifth-placed team faces a playoff against a team from another confederation.
Every match is a high-stakes affair, where a single point can make a significant difference in the standings. The home advantage often dictates the result, adding another layer of intrigue to the competition.
Argentina: Rekindling the Flame
The Albiceleste, under the stewardship of Lionel Scaloni, have undergone a dramatic resurgence. The Lionel Messi-led team is looking to reclaim their status as a global powerhouse after a disappointing World Cup in Russia.
Key Players:
- Lionel Messi: Arguably the greatest footballer of all time, Messi's influence on the pitch is immeasurable.
- Lautaro Martinez: The Inter Milan striker is a lethal finisher and a perfect foil for Messi.
- Ángel Di María: The veteran winger provides creativity and attacking width for Argentina.
Schedule Highlights:
- Matchday 14: Argentina vs. Colombia (January 27, 2022) - A crucial clash for both teams, as the stakes will be incredibly high.
- Matchday 17: Ecuador vs. Argentina (March 24, 2022) - Argentina will need to be at their best to secure a vital victory on the road.
- Matchday 18: Argentina vs. Ecuador (March 29, 2022) - A chance to close out the qualifying campaign with a flourish on home soil.
Challenges:
Argentina faces tough competition, with Brazil and Uruguay always lurking. Consistency will be key, as any slip-ups could derail their World Cup aspirations.
Brazil: The Unstoppable Juggernaut
The Seleção, under Tite, are the undisputed kings of South America. They boast a formidable squad that is a constant threat to every opponent.
Key Players:
- Neymar Jr: The Paris Saint-Germain forward is the undisputed leader and the attacking force of the Brazilian team.
- Casemiro: The Real Madrid midfielder provides defensive solidity and incredible work rate in the heart of the Brazilian midfield.
- Vinicius Jr: The young winger is a rising star with the ability to unlock defenses with his pace and dribbling skills.
Schedule Highlights:
- Matchday 13: Brazil vs. Colombia (November 11, 2021) - A chance to gain a significant advantage in the race to Qatar.
- Matchday 16: Bolivia vs. Brazil (March 24, 2022) - A tricky away fixture against a resolute Bolivian side.
- Matchday 17: Brazil vs. Chile (March 29, 2022) - A potential high-scoring affair against a determined Chilean team.
Challenges:
The pressure of maintaining their dominance and qualifying for the World Cup is a challenge for Brazil. They will need to stay focused and avoid any surprises.
Colombia: The Fight for Redemption
After a disappointing World Cup in Russia, Colombia under manager Reinaldo Rueda are desperate to return to the global stage. They possess a talented squad with the potential to make a strong push.
Key Players:
- James Rodríguez: The experienced attacking midfielder is a key playmaker and a vital component of Colombia's attacking strategy.
- Luis Diaz: The Porto winger is a rising star with pace and trickery that can unlock defenses.
- Radamel Falcao García: The veteran striker is a clinical finisher and a constant threat in the penalty box.
Schedule Highlights:
- Matchday 15: Colombia vs. Argentina (February 1, 2022) - A chance to show they can compete with the best.
- Matchday 16: Venezuela vs. Colombia (March 24, 2022) - A crucial away fixture where Colombia must secure a vital three points.
- Matchday 17: Colombia vs. Bolivia (March 29, 2022) - A chance to end their qualifying campaign on a positive note.
Challenges:
Colombia faces stiff competition from teams like Uruguay and Chile. They will need to find a way to be consistent and win crucial matches.
The Road to Qatar: A Journey Filled with Drama and Excitement
The South American World Cup qualifying campaign is a thrilling spectacle of high-stakes matches, star-studded players, and passionate fans. With every passing match, the race to Qatar becomes more intense, with twists and turns that keep fans on the edge of their seats. Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia have the talent and determination to reach the World Cup, but the journey will be filled with challenges and unexpected hurdles. As the qualifying campaign enters its final phase, one thing is certain: the South American giants will fight tooth and nail to secure their place in the global footballing spectacle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When does the South American World Cup qualifying campaign begin and end?
The South American World Cup qualifying campaign began on March 26, 2020, and will conclude on March 29, 2022.
2. How many teams qualify for the World Cup from South America?
The top four teams in the South American qualifying table automatically qualify for the World Cup.
3. What happens to the fifth-placed team in South America?
The fifth-placed team in the South American qualifying table will compete in a playoff against a team from another confederation for a place in the World Cup.
4. Who are the favorites to qualify from South America?
Brazil and Argentina are considered the favorites to qualify from South America, but Colombia, Uruguay, and Ecuador are also contenders.
5. What is the current qualifying standings in South America?
As of November 10, 2021, Brazil sits at the top of the table with 39 points, followed by Argentina (35), Ecuador (26), Uruguay (22), Colombia (17), Chile (16), Peru (16), Bolivia (15), Paraguay (13), and Venezuela (7).
6. How can I follow the South American World Cup qualifying campaign?
You can follow the South American World Cup qualifying campaign through live scores, news updates, and match highlights on websites like FIFA.com, ESPN.com, and various other sports news sources.
