Thiago Silva Calls For Revamp Of South America World Cup Qualifiers

Under the current system, the ten South American countries play home and away matches against each other, totalling 18 games for each country.

The first four countries automatically qualify for the world cup while the fifth placed side contests a play-off with an Asian country.

A huge number of South American players ply their trade in Europe, meaning they usually have travel long distances to fulfill fixtures and matches are played at varying altitudes and temperatures within a limited number of days.

Silva wants the current format to be altered before the world cup expands to 48 teams in its next edition in 2026.

"It's not the 18 games, but the travelling we do. It's a lot of mileage compared to the Europeans, who play close together," the 37-year-old Chelsea defender was quoted as saying by Globo Esporte. 

"There's a lot of wear and tear, in addition to the climate, which is totally different from what we are used to in Europe. 

"Me and the team had a hard time training in Teresopolis, which is colder than Rio de Janeiro [where Brazil played Chile on Thursday]. This can hinder performance. 

"If we could somehow find a balance in these trips, it would certainly facilitate our stay and our performances. 

"It's definitely unnecessary wear and tear, in my opinion."

Brazil top the South America qualifying group and have already booked their place in Qatar.