There was joy for Argentina and Brazil last night as the South American rivals booked their place at next summer’s World Cup – but despair for Chile who miss out.

City’s Gabriel Jesus scored twice against team-mate Claudio Bravo as Brazil beat Chile 3-0, while Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to a 3-1 win in Ecuador to secure automatic qualification.

With Ederson and Fernandinho featuring for Brazil and Danilo on the bench, the Blues should have four representatives in Tite’s squad who are already looking like one of the pre-tournament favourites.

Jesus was back on familiar territory as Brazil played at Palmeiras and the City striker bagged goals in the 57th and 90th minutes to end Chile’s hopes of qualification.

Meanwhile, Argentina’s first win in Ecuador since 2001 ended a troubled campaign for La Albiceleste on a high note.

The fact Nicolas Otamendi and Sergio Aguero will not need to participate in a World Cup play-off will delight Pep Guardiola who would have lost two key players for at least a fortnight this autumn.

Though Aguero was injured for the game, Otamendi played the full 90 minutes to snatch third spot in the group and an automatic berth.