Lionel Messi delivered an extraordinary assist as Lautaro Martinez’s stunning volley secured Argentina a crucial 1-0 win against Peru in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers. The victory solidifies Argentina’s dominance at the top of the standings, inching them closer to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Messi and Martinez Shine at the Bombonera
Playing at the iconic Bombonera stadium in Buenos Aires, Lionel Messi once again demonstrated his unmatched creativity. The Inter Miami forward floated an inch-perfect cross from the left, allowing Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez to execute a breathtaking volley in the 55th minute. Martinez leapt into the air and delivered a thunderous left-footed strike past Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, securing all three points for La Albiceleste.
While not a vintage performance from Lionel Scaloni’s squad, this moment of brilliance ensured Argentina’s eighth win in 12 matches. The reigning world champions remain atop the CONMEBOL standings with 25 points, five points clear of second-placed Uruguay.
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Brazil Held to a Draw by Uruguay
Meanwhile, Brazil struggled in Salvador, managing only a 1-1 draw against Uruguay. The visitors took the lead in the 55th minute through Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde, who produced a sublime finish. However, Brazil responded quickly as Gerson smashed home an equalizer seven minutes later after a deflected clearance fell to him.
Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli came close to a winner, showcasing excellent control before unleashing a volley that forced a brilliant save from Uruguay’s Sergio Rochet. The draw leaves Brazil in fifth place with 18 points, one point behind fourth-placed Colombia.
Colombia Upset by Ecuador
Ecuador stunned Colombia with a 1-0 victory in Barranquilla. Veteran forward Enner Valencia scored a spectacular solo goal in the seventh minute, dribbling past three defenders before slotting home.
Colombia’s Jhon Cordoba missed a golden opportunity to equalize after being set up by James Rodriguez. The match took a controversial turn in the 34th minute when Piero Hincapie was sent off for a foul on Cordoba, leaving Ecuador to play with 10 men.
Despite relentless pressure from Colombia, Ecuador’s goalkeeper Hernan Galindez made crucial saves to secure the win.
Paraguay and Bolivia Share the Spoils
Paraguay and Bolivia played out a dramatic 2-2 draw in La Paz. Bolivia opened the scoring in the 15th minute through Ervin Vaca, but Newcastle United’s Miguel Almiron equalized for Paraguay with a clinical finish in the 71st minute.
Bolivia regained the lead with a Miguel Terceros penalty after a foul in the box. However, Julio Enciso rescued a point for Paraguay with a stunning solo goal in stoppage time, dribbling from deep before unleashing a powerful shot from 20 yards.
Chile Boost Their Qualification Hopes
Chile revived their slim hopes of automatic qualification with an emphatic 4-2 victory over Venezuela. Despite being in ninth place, the win provides a much-needed boost as they strive to secure one of the six automatic qualification spots.
CONMEBOL Standings After Matchday
- Argentina: 25 points (Top of the table, edging closer to qualification)
- Uruguay: 20 points
- Ecuador: 19 points
- Colombia: 18 points
- Brazil: 18 points
Key Takeaways
- Messi’s Magic Continues: Lionel Messi’s assist highlights his enduring impact as Argentina’s playmaker.
- Martinez’s Decisive Finish: Lautaro Martinez proved his worth as a clinical striker with a memorable volley.
- Competitive Qualifiers: Brazil’s struggles and Colombia’s upset loss underline the unpredictable nature of CONMEBOL qualifiers.
As the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies, Argentina’s consistency and star performances put them in a commanding position to secure early qualification.