Big two closing in on World Cup places
Bolivia’s 2-1 defeat at home to Argentina left them bottom of the table with only 10 points, and they desperately need all three points in La Paz if they are to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Venezuela could only record a goalless draw at Colombia at the weekend and are on 14 points.
Colombia themselves face Argentina, who lead the group with 25 points, and know that a win will all-but guarantee their place at next summer’s World Cup.
Argentina coach Jose Pekerman is expected to recall the squad’s Europe-based stars to the starting line-up after resting them against Bolivia, so Hernan Crespo, Juan Roman Riquelme and Roberto Ayala will probably start.
“Colombia are in a tough situation and they need to win points as visitors. So they will give all their best to get at least a draw in Buenos Aires,” said Pekerman.
“That’s why I preserved some Europe-based players, who are quite tired.”
Brazil lie second in the table with 23 points but they face a tough test with their visit to Uruguay, who have 15 points after a 1-1 draw against Chile on Saturday.
Brazil have not won in Uruguay for 29 years, but defender Cafu said: “These things are made to be broken.
“We suffered a lot the heat against Peru (a disappointing 1-0 victory at home), but we know we can do it better, and we travel to Montevideo aiming to get all three points.”
Meanwhile Paraguay, who have 16 points, will host Chile, who are two points worse off.
Chile will be looking to bounce back after the 5-2 defeat they suffered in Ecuador on Sunday.
Finally, Ecuador themselves, who are flying high in third place on 19 points, will visit Peru, who are another team urgently needing a victory to climb up the standings.
The top four teams all qualify for next year’s tournament in Germany.
The fifth placed team will have to win a play-off against the Oceania winners, who are likely to be Australia, to reach the World Cup.
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