For the CONMEBOL, only the top four countries advance to the next round guaranteed. A fifth country has a chance to advance as well. But prior to Thursday’s Colombia vs. Uruguay 2012 match, Colombia is in sixth place, while Uruguay is in second.

As news analysts remind fans, Colombia is roughly only one point out of fifth position against Venezuela. So a key win by Colombia Thursday, a loss by Venezuela, could change Colombia’s chances in these qualifiers.

For Colombia, however, these WC Qualifying matches haven’t all gone well. In fall last year, Colombia defeated Bolivia, earned a draw against Venezuela, but was defeated by Argentina. This year, however the team earned one win in two matches, first a win against Peru and then a loss against Ecuador.

Uruguay, in contrast, has dominated this CONMEBOL since fall last year. The team delivered nine goals in three games last winter, defeating Chile and Bolivia and earning a draw against Paraguay. This year, the team shocked news with five goals in two games, defeated Peru and earned a draw against Venezuela. For live updates Friday of this match, click HERE.