While a handful of nations have already booked their place in next summer’s Russia World Cup, there is still a lot to play for in South America.

In their 10 nation league, only four sides qualify automatically.

Brazil have already secured their plane ticket as they lead the way by 10 points. But behind them, there is an almighty battle for the remaining three spots.

Uruguay, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Argentina and Paraguay all harbour hopes of qualifying automatically with just four points separating all six nations with just one fixture remaining.

But only three of those countries can do so with the side coming 5th entering the playoffs.

But two of them will miss out altogether.

Brazil might have already qualified but they will play a very big role in who will join them in Russia.

That’s because they host third-place Chile and that result will have huge implications on who qualifies.

Of course, Argentina - who are currently 6th and outside the playoff spot - will be praying Brazil can do them a massive favour.

But a 0-0 draw with Bolivia last week suggests Brazil have taken their foot off the gas a little.

Will they roll over for Chile?

Well, not if Neymar has anything to do with it.

According to Spanish outlet, SPORT, Neymar has promised to beat Chile.

Not only “to offer a good image before our fans” but for his good friend Lionel Messi.

If Brazil beat Chile and Argentina win in Ecuador, Messi’s side will qualify automatically.

So Neymar wants to help Messi qualify for the World Cup by beating Chile. How cute.

A World Cup without Messi would be pretty disastrous for football, to be fair.

While Messi is in danger of missing out on the World Cup, so too is Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo’s Portugal side have won eight of their nine matches but trail Switzerland - who have a 100% record by three points heading into their clash on Tuesday.

Ronaldo will know that if he can inspire his nation to victory over the Swiss, though, he will be at the World Cup. If not, they will have to face the lottery of the play-offs.

As football fans, we should be hoping that both Messi and Ronaldo will be in Russia next summer.