The Argentines gave in against Paraguay, despite the opening score of Lautaro Martinez (center).
Photo: KEYSTONE/AP/Jorge Saenz
Argentina, reigning world champion, was beaten Thursday in Paraguay in qualifying for the 2026 World Cup (2-1). The Albiceleste, however, remains at the top of the ranking.
Lionel Messi and his teammates had ideally started this game played in Asuncion by opening the scoring in the 11th minute of play through Lautaro Martinez. But the Paraguayans quickly responded, thanks to a goal from Antonio Sanabria (19th), before taking the advantage at the start of the second half with a success from Omar Alderete (47th).
With three points ahead of Colombia, which plays Friday in Uruguay, Argentina is still first in qualifying for the next World Cup. Paraguay occupies the sixth and last directly qualifying place.
Brazil draws
Brazil, with a lackluster Vinicius who notably missed a penalty, escaped the Venezuelan trap with a tense draw (1-1) which will leave him with regrets.
After a start to 2024 to forget, the Seleçao, which continues its convalescence with its new coach Dorival Junior appointed in March, nevertheless took its 7th point in three matches and returned to the top of the ranking (3rd with 17 points to 5 from Argentina)
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Swiss
