Argentina, Chile stumble again, Uruguay on brink

Argentina needed a second-half own goal to help it snatch a 1-1 draw against already-eliminated Venezuela in Buenos Aires while Chile crashed to a 1-0 defeat against Bolivia in La Paz. 

The results left 2014 World Cup finalist Argentina and reigning Copa America champion Chile outside of the automatic qualifying places and sets up a nail-biting final two rounds of matches next month.

Argentina is fifth in the standings with 24 points from 16 games while Chile is sixth with 23 points. 

The Argentinians — who would face a playoff against New Zealand if it remains fifth — host fourth-placed Peru next month in Buenos Aires before an awkward final game at altitude against Ecuador. Chile meanwhile will face Ecuador in Santiago on October 5, before heading to Brazil for its final qualifier five days later. 

At the top of the table, Brazil has already qualified and assured itself of first place. The Brazilians picked up another point on Tuesday with a 1-1 draw against third placed Colombia in Barranquilla. A spectacular volleyed goal from Willian gave the Brazilians the lead on the stroke of half-time before Colombia clawed back a share of the points with a battling second-half display.