Luis Suarez’s illustrious 17-year international career with Uruguay came to an end as they were held to a goalless draw against Paraguay in a South American World Cup qualifier. The 37-year-old striker, who announced his retirement from international duty earlier this week, leaves as Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer with 69 goals in 143 appearances since his debut against Colombia in February 2007.

Before the match, Suarez and his family gathered on the pitch for a pre-game ceremony featuring tributes from fans and a video message from his Inter Miami teammate and Argentine legend, Lionel Messi. Reflecting on his career, Suarez told the crowd, “Uruguay is bigger than any player. Starting tomorrow I will be another fan.”

Despite Uruguay dominating possession with 65%, they struggled to break down Paraguay’s resolute defense in a scrappy encounter that saw 24 fouls and six yellow cards, including one for Suarez. Suarez had the best chance for Uruguay in the first half, but his effort hit the post. On the other side, Newcastle’s Miguel Almiron came closest for Paraguay, but his shot was saved by Uruguay’s goalkeeper, Sergio Rochet.

Uruguay’s lineup was weakened by the absence of five suspended players, including Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez and Tottenham’s Rodrigo Bentancur, who were involved in a clash with fans during a Copa America defeat to Colombia in July. The draw keeps Uruguay in second place in the qualifying table, four points behind leaders Argentina.

Elsewhere in South American qualifiers, Brazil improved their World Cup qualifying campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Ecuador, courtesy of a goal from Real Madrid forward Rodrygo. This victory moved Brazil up from sixth to fourth in the standings, with the top six teams securing a place at the 2026 World Cup. Notably, teenage winger Estevao Willian, who will join Chelsea when he turns 18 next year, made his debut as a second-half substitute.

In Lima, Colombia, currently third in the standings, secured a 1-1 draw against Peru thanks to a late equalizer from Liverpool’s Luis Diaz. After Alexander Callens gave Peru the lead in the 68th minute, Diaz rescued a point for Colombia with a header just eight minutes before the final whistle.

These results reflect the intense competition and shifting dynamics in the South American qualifiers as teams vie for a spot in the upcoming World Cup.

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