A Look Ahead to 10/10: CONMEBOL

We've previewed this weekend's action in CONCACAF, UEFA, CAF, and the OFC-AFC playoff. Last but not least, we give you a preview of this weekend's CONMEBOL action.

It's been talked about extensively in the world of international soccer, and I'm sure many of you are already aware: Argentina is struggling. Diego Maradonna is in hot water and the idea of resignation has been throw around by many people. With just two rounds left, Argentina sits fifth in the standings and could very well be on the outside looking in after this week's games. Lionel Messi and company are reeling following the last two rounds of qualifiers, in which Argentina lost 3-1 at home to Brazil and then defeated by Paraguay 1-0 on the road.

Fortunately for Mardonna's men, they host Peru tomorrow, who have no hopes of advancing and have collected just 10 points from 16 matches. The Peruvians have scored only two goals away from home, losing all 8 of their away matches thus far. Argentina would be remiss if they drop any points to the cellar dwellers, as the middle of the CONMEBOL table is very tight. Brazil and Paraguay have already clinched spots in South Africa, while Chile looks poised to do so this week as well. Below the top three, however, there is a log jam of five teams separated by just three points. With the top four automatically qualifying and the fifth place team advancing to a playoff against CONCACAF's #4, there is plenty on the line in CONMEBOL.

Ecuador (23 points) sits in fourth place, one point ahead of Argentina. They host Uruguay (21 points) in a critical match that has plenty of implications. Uruguay will be looking to take at least a point from this one, keeping them within striking distance of Argentina heading into their matchup on the final matchday. Ecuador, meanwhile, will look to strengthen their hold on the final automatic qualification spot.

Colombia (20 points) and Venezuela (21 points), meanwhile, will look to move up in the table. Colombia hosts Chile (27 points), who can qualify with a win or a draw coupled with some help. Venezuela, on the other hand, has its last two matches against Paraguay and Brazil, who both have already qualified. It will be interesting to see if both those teams field their top squads, as this could definitely impact Venezuela's efforts to secure a top 5 spot.

So if you thought CONCACAF qualifying was tight, CONMEBOL's is even closer, with 8 teams still with a realistic chance of making it to South Africa with just two qualifying matches to go.