Brazil beats Uruguay

Leaders Brazil easily defeated Uruguay 4-1 in Thursday’s South American World Cup qualifying match, putting the team in standby mode for its direct spot at Qatar next year. Neymar and Raphinha shone for the Seleção in its home match at Manaus.

Brazil has 31 points, more than any team that advanced in four South American qualifiers since the current format was established in 2002. Argentina has 25 points, and both teams have played 11 matches.

The encounter between the two rivals in September was suspended after seven minutes of play due to COVID-19 protocols. FIFA has not yet decided whether the match will be re-played.

Ecuador remains in third spot with 17 points after a 0-0 draw at Colombia, which has 16 points in fourth, marginally ahead of Uruguay.

The top four teams earn direct entry to the World Cup next year. The fifth-place team can still qualify via an intercontinental playoff.
South American World Cup qualifiers will resume with two rounds in November.