Brazil to kick off World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia

ASUNCION - Five-time world champions Brazil will begin their qualifying campaign for the 2022 World Cup with a home clash against Bolivia, South American football's governing body CONMEBOL said.

The clash will be played on March 26 at a venue that has yet to be confirmed by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).

In other opening round fixtures, Uruguay will meet Chile, Colombia face Venezuela, Paraguay confront Peru and Argentina clash with Ecuador.

The fixtures will mark the start of a 20-month qualifying campaign in which the top four teams will secure a berth at football's showpiece tournament in Qatar. The fifth-ranked side will earn a playoff berth.

"The competition is going to be very even because other teams are growing. It's not just about Brazil and Argentina anymore," Brazil coach Tite told reporters after the draw.

Brazil will host traditional rivals Argentina on October 13, 2020, with the return fixture to be played on September 7, 2021.