Sat Sep 06 11:20:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**South American Soccer Erupts: Paraguay Celebrates World Cup Qualification After 20-Year Wait**

Asuncion, Paraguay – The streets of Asuncion erupted in joyous celebration Thursday night as Paraguay secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending a 20-year drought. The nation last appeared in the prestigious tournament in South Africa 2010.

Paraguay joined Uruguay and Colombia in clinching their spots in the next-to-last round of South American qualifiers, adding to the already qualified nations of Argentina, Brazil, and Ecuador.

Uruguay and Colombia celebrated dominant 3-0 victories, while Paraguay’s hard-fought scoreless draw was enough to secure their long-awaited qualification.

Colombia’s return to the World Cup after missing the 2022 Qatar edition was highlighted by goals from James Rodríguez, John Cordoba, and Juan Fernando Quintero in their win over Bolivia. Star player James Rodríguez expressed his gratitude for representing his country and his determination to play in his third World Cup.

Meanwhile, in other qualifying matches, Argentina, already qualified, defeated Venezuela 3-0 with two goals from Lionel Messi. Peru’s World Cup hopes were dashed following their loss to Uruguay.

The 2026 World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will feature a record 48 teams. Forty-three will qualify through continental tournaments, with two more spots available through intercontinental playoffs. The host nations automatically qualify.

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