The Argentinian world champions (25 points) will retain the lead in the Fifa rankings ahead of the French team! The Albiceleste, who had just suffered their third defeat (2-1 in Paraguay on Friday) in qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, moved forward again in the Bombonera in Buenos Aires on the night of Tuesday 19 to Wednesday 20 November against the Peru, last in this unique group which has not yet won a single match (3 points).
Despite 75% possession in the first half, Argentina only found the fault in the second act. It was inevitably from Messi that the spark came, with an incursion by the Argentine captain into the area which monopolized four defenders. His perfect delivery found Lautaro Martinez at the penalty spot who rose for a powerful volley from the left for his 32nd goal in the selection. Unstoppable (1-0, 55th).
With 25 points, Argentina (8W, 1D, 3D) is ahead of its pursuers. Uruguay (2nd, 20 points) brought home a point from Salvador de Bahia against a Brazil which is still struggling to convince after a pitiful draw (1-1) in Venezuela last Thursday. The two victories and the revival seen in October against Chile (2-1), then Peru (4-0) are already far away. Critics came back with a vengeance upon Venezuela's return over the lack of realism of the attacking duo and the creativity of the midfield.
Upcoming tempting encounters
While the Raphinha-Vinicius duo had created an opportunity, it was ultimately another Real Madrid player who would make the difference. Uruguayan attacking midfielder Federicio Valverde at the left entrance to the area opened his foot for a curling shot which deceived Ederson despite his relaxation (1-0, 54th). Barcelona's Raphina responded with a cross to the far post pushed back with a header, followed by Gerson who instantly volleyed with his left foot (1-1, 62nd).
Despite this point, it is a bad accounting operation for Brazil (5V, 3N, 4D) which is in 5th place (18 points) and was overtaken by Ecuador (3rd, 19 points) winner (1-0 ) in Colombia (4th, 19 points). Already beaten on the gong in Uruguay (3-2), James Rodriguez's team lost for the first time at home against Ecuador, which was reduced to ten men. Constant domination and opportunities galore were not enough to erase Enner Valencia's opening score in the 7th minute following culpable passivity in defense.
Venezuela (8th, 12 points), after a surprising start to qualifying, no longer even occupies the place of play-off (the first 6 are directly qualified) after its setback (4-2) in Chile (9th, 9 points).
READ ALSO. Between Stade Rennais and Argentina, an upset tango
The 13th day in March 2025 will see enticing Uruguay – Argentina (for a revenge of the 2-0 first leg victory at the Bombonera) and Brazil – Colombia.
