Bolivia boosted their hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup by clinching a dramatic 1-0 win over Brazil in El Alto on Tuesday, capitalizing on Venezuela’s loss to Colombia.
Miguel Terceros converted a penalty just before half-time to secure the shock victory against the five-time world champions, in a match played at a staggering 4,150 metres above sea level.
The win pushed Bolivia into seventh place in the final South American qualifying standings, leapfrogging Venezuela and securing a spot in next year’s intercontinental play-offs for a place at the tournament in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
Venezuela, who were hoping to qualify for the World Cup for the first time, held a one-point lead over Bolivia heading into the last round of matches, but were beaten 6-3 at home by Colombia.
“We’re very happy, but we need to keep our feet on the ground, knowing that we have to keep fighting,” said Bolivian coach Oscar Villegas.
