League leaders Argentina achieved the expected mandatory win against Peru – Messi & Co. won 1-0 against the bottom team from the Andes.
Argentina’s match winner Martinez scored spectacularly against Peru.
IMAGO/Sebastian Frej
For the first time in this unequal duel, things became a little more dangerous when Messi dribbled down the right, found the line to de Paul on the wing, but his back pass was hammered by Tagliafico from Olympique Lyonnais from 22 meters well over the Peruvian goal. Much more dangerous was Alvarez’s finish, who had a clear path from nine meters after a quick relay over Messi and Martinez, but only hit the left outside post.
Peru did nothing but defend, but had to concede more chances in the first half. Mac Allister had the chance to strike from crosses twice, but the Liverpool professional narrowly missed the target twice. Montiel’s takedown from Alvarez’s cross also fizzled out, so that the guests were able to save the 0-0 lead into the half-time break. Messi recorded just one shot in the first 45 minutes, but the reigning world champions’ captain fired a free kick from 22 meters straight into the arms of keeper Gallese.
Messi serves Martinez for a fantastic side kick
After the break, the Argentines’ attacking efforts were rewarded – and fantastically so: Messi energetically penetrated the penalty area from the left, found Martinez with his cross and the Inter striker spectacularly sank the ball into the net from the penalty spot with a side kick to make it 1-0. Martinez almost made it 2-0 straight away, but after a free kick from de Paul his volley flew just over the goal.
And Peru? The bottom team of the South American Eliminatorias dared to move forward a little more courageously after falling behind, but there was no more than two long-range shots from Lapadula and Pena, which fluttered well over the Argentine goal.
In the end it was a well-deserved but unadorned victory for league leaders Argentina, who now have a five-point lead after their pursuers Uruguay drew in Brazil.
Swiss
