Luis Suarez’s 17-year Uruguay career came to a close as they were held to a goalless draw against Paraguay in a South American World Cup qualifier.

Suarez, 37, announced on Monday that he is retiring from international duty.

He ends as Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer with 69 goals in 143 appearances since his debut against Colombia in February 2007.

Suarez and his family gathered on the pitch before kick-off for a pre-game ceremony, including tributes from fans and a video message from Argentina legend and Inter Miami team-mate Lionel Messi.

“Uruguay is bigger than any player. Starting tomorrow I will be another fan,” he told the crowd.

Uruguay had 65% possession but struggled to break down a dogged Paraguay defence in a scrappy encounter that included 24 fouls and six yellow cards – including one for Suarez.

The former Liverpool and Barcelona forward had the best chance for the home side but his first-half effort hit the post.

Newcastle’s Miguel Almiron had Paraguay’s best effort but his shot was saved by goalkeeper Sergio Rochet.

Uruguay were without five players through suspension, including Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez and Tottenham’s Rodrigo Bentancur, after they clashed with fans during a Copa America defeat by Colombia in July.

The draw keeps Uruguay second in the qualifying table, four points behind Argentina.

Elsewhere, Brazil boosted their flagging World Cup qualifying campaign with a 1-0 win over Ecuador.

Real Madrid forward Rodrygo scored the only goal as the five-time world champions moved up from sixth to fourth in the table, with the top six guaranteed a place at the 2026 World Cup.

Teenage winger Estevao Willian, who is joining Chelsea when he turns 18 next year, made his debut as a second-half substitute.

In Lima, third-placed Colombia needed a late goal from Liverpool’s Luis Diaz to earn a 1-1 draw against Peru.

Alexander Callens put Peru ahead on 68 minutes but Diaz headed the equaliser with eight minutes remaining.