Colombia fans briefly believed they could claim the three points from their loss to Brazil. The Brazilian team made seven substitutions during their Matchday 13 clash in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Now, CONMEBOL has addressed the situation.
Colombia initially fell behind after Raphinha converted a penalty following a foul by Daniel Muñoz on Vinicius Jr. However, the team gained momentum, dominated possession, and equalized in the 41st minute with a stunning goal from Luis Díaz.
The match seemed to be tilting in Colombia’s favor until the 75th minute when an incident sparked major controversy. Both Colombia and Brazil had to substitute Dávinson Sánchez and Alisson due to FIFA’s concussion protocol.
Brazil secured a 2-1 victory with a late goal from Vinicius Jr., but in the 12th minute of stoppage time, head coach Dorival Júnior made a seventh substitution. With concussion-related changes, aren’t teams only allowed six substitutions? CONMEBOL has now provided clarity.
Did Brazil break the rules with seven substitutions vs. Colombia? CONMEBOL Weighs in
According to Brazilian outlet GloboEsporte, CONMEBOL confirmed that “both teams were allowed seven substitutions,” meaning Brazil’s 2-1 victory over Colombia remains valid. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) regulations clarified this situation due to the concussion protocol applied by both teams.
see also
Vinicius gives Brazil dramatic win vs Colombia in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Highlights and goals
What IFAB rules say about Brazil vs. Colombia’s substitutions?
According to IFAB’s 2024-25 Laws of the Game, which apply to all FIFA and CONMEBOL competitions, “If a concussion substitution is used, the opposing team will automatically be granted an additional substitution.” As both teams made a substitution under the concussion protocol, they each received two additional changes beyond the standard five.
