The South American section of the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification will act as qualifiers for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, to be held in Russia, for national teams which are members of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL). A total of 4.5 slots (4 direct slots and 1 inter-confederation play-off slot) in the final tournament are available for CONMEBOL teams.
It seems almost inconceivable that Lionel Messi will not be at football's biggest tournament, but his Argentina side are in real danger of missing out.
The two-time champions, who have not missed the finals since 1970, are currently languishing in fifth place.
With the top four qualifying, that position would send them into a two-legged play-off against New Zealand, but even that scenario is far from assured with Copa America holders Chile lurking just a point behind in sixth.
Argentina take on Peru, who are above them in fourth on goal difference, before facing Ecuador.
