Uruguay inch closer to 2018 FIFA World Cup after 0-0 draw at Venezuela

Uruguay move inches closer to clinching a 2018 FIFA World Cup berth. (Source: Reuters)

Uruguay drew 0-0 at Venezuela and inched closer to clinching a World Cup berth from South American qualifying. Uruguay improved to 28 points, which could be enough to advance depending on other late matches on Thursday.

Brazil, which has already secured a spot at next year’s World in Russia, drew 0-0 against Bolivia in the thin air of La Paz. In addition to Brazil, three other teams will qualify directly from South America, and the fifth-place team will face a two-game intercontinental playoff with Oceania champion New Zealand for another spot.

In late matches, two-time champion Argentina was home in Buenos Aires against Peru and needed a victory to steady its World Cup bid. Colombia was on the verge of advancing and was home against Paraguay. Chile was home against Ecuador, with both trying to avoid elimination.

BRAZIL RELAXES

Brazil has already qualified for the World Cup and appeared relaxed in a 0-0 draw against Bolivia despite playing at 3,650 meters (11,900 feet) in the Andes. Bolivia goalkeeper Carlos Lampe was the player of the match with three keys saves against Brazil star Neymar.

Tite is undefeated in 11 qualifying matches since taking over as Brazil coach, including nine wins. Brazil wraps up qualifying on Tuesday in Sao Paulo against Chile. Bolivia is already out of contention for the World Cup and finishes at Uruguay.