In Tuesday’s South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, Colombia suffered a 1-0 defeat at home to Ecuador, while Julio Enciso's late equalizer secured a dramatic 2-2 draw for Paraguay against Bolivia.

Ecuador Edges Colombia Despite Red Card

Ecuador's Enner Valencia opened the scoring with a brilliant solo effort in the 7th minute. However, the visitors faced adversity when Piero Hincapié was sent off in the 34th minute for a last-man foul on Jhon Córdoba. Despite playing with an extra man, Colombia failed to capitalize on their chances, with Luis Díaz hitting the post and Ecuador goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez delivering an outstanding performance.

The win pushed Ecuador to third place in the CONMEBOL standings with 19 points, while Colombia remains fourth, tied on points but trailing on goal difference after their second consecutive loss.

Paraguay Battles for a Draw at High Altitude

At 4,150m above sea level in El Alto, Bolivia looked poised for victory against Paraguay. Ervin Vaca scored his first international goal in the 15th minute to give Bolivia the lead. Miguel Almirón equalized for Paraguay in the 71st minute, but Bolivia retook the lead through a Miguel Terceros penalty in the 80th minute.

Julio Enciso delivered the final blow in stoppage time, curling a stunning strike from the edge of the box to level the score. Paraguay nearly snatched a win, but Bolivia's goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra made a crucial save to deny Ramón Sosa.

Standings and Implications

Paraguay: Unbeaten in six matches, sits sixth with 17 points.

Bolivia: Seventh with 13 points, still in contention for the inter-confederation playoffs.

Ecuador: Jumps to third on 19 points.

Colombia: Slips to fourth, tied with Ecuador but behind on goal difference.

Upcoming Matches

Later in the day, Argentina will face Peru, Chile will take on Venezuela, and Brazil will meet Uruguay in othercrucial CONMEBOL qualifiers.

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