The Argentine national team clinched their third consecutive victory in the framework of the 2026 World Cup South American qualifiers.
Argentina hosted Paraguay in a home match as part of the 2026 World Cup South American qualifiers. Coach Lionel Scaloni fielded a strong lineup, including several star players such as Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, and more.
Meanwhile, superstar Lionel Messi was on the bench as he was recovering from an injury. On the Paraguayan side, coach Daniel Garnero’s squad featured the notable presence of winger Miguel Almiron, who currently plays for Newcastle United.
With their outstanding squad, Argentina took the initiative and pressed high up the field right from the kickoff. In the 3rd minute, the home team reaped the rewards. Starting from a corner kick on the left by Rodrigo De Paul, the ball found its way to the far post, where defender Nicolas Otamendi unleashed a world-class volley, finding the back of the net. Argentina took an early 1-0 lead over Paraguay.
Following the early goal, Argentina dominated the gameplay. Coach Lionel Scaloni’s team created numerous goal-scoring opportunities, with De Paul standing out as the brightest star in the first half.
The 29-year-old midfielder played with intensity and enthusiasm. Despite their dominance, the home team’s stars struggled to find the back of the net. Players like Alvarez, Martinez, and Nicolas Gonzalez all missed some great chances. In the 42nd minute, De Paul’s shot hit the crossbar of Paraguay’s goal.
At the end of the first 45 minutes, Argentina led Paraguay 1-0. In the second half, Argentina continued to dominate their opponents. In the 53rd minute, Lionel Messi was substituted in for Alvarez.
During the latter part of the second half, Argentina deliberately slowed down their gameplay. In the 76th minute, Messi’s free-kick hit the post on the right side of Paraguay’s goal.
In the 90+3rd minute, Messi had a second opportunity to strike a direct free-kick that once again hit the post. At the end of the 90 minutes, Argentina secured a 1-0 victory over Paraguay. With this result, Argentina leads the standings in the 2026 World Cup South American qualifiers with a perfect 9 points after three matches.
