Argentina stays on course for World Cup even without Messi

The Albiceleste achieved a clear victory.

South American champions Argentina have once again underlined their dominance on the continent at this year’s restart of the Eliminatorias, celebrating a 3-0 (0-0) win against Chile. Almost eight weeks after their Copa America triumph, the world champions are clearly on course for the 2026 World Cup with their sixth win in seven qualifying matches, even without captain Lionel Messi, who is still suffering from an ankle injury.

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After a post scare for the Chileans, who have now fallen to second-to-last place, Alexis Mac Allister (48th), Julian Alvarez (84th) and Paulo Dybala (90th+1) ultimately secured a clear victory for the home team. While Argentina storms ahead with 18 points, Venezuela suffered only its second defeat. At an altitude of 4,000 meters in the Andean city of El Alto, Bolivia robbed the Vinotintos of air and points with a 4-0 (2-0) victory.

On Friday, pursuers Uruguay (13) will play against Paraguay and Colombia (12) will want to stay on the heels of the Argentinians at bottom-placed Peru. Sixth-placed Brazil (7) will be looking to catch up with the top three against Ecuador (8). In total, the South Americans have six direct tickets to the World Cup and one via the play-offs at stake.