Argentina, reigning world champion, won its third victory on the third day of South American qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, winning 1-0 against Paraguay on Thursday in Buenos Aires.
A goal from Nicolas Otamendi in the third minute of play was enough for the team led by Lionel Scaloni, while Lionel Messi, who came on in the second half, hit the uprights twice.
Hampered by a scar from an old injury to his right leg according to the coach, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner started on the bench, with Nicolas Gonzalez, Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez leading the Albiceleste attack at kick-off .
But it was the veteran central defender of Benfica Lisbon, aged 35, who was decisive by taking a corner from Rodrigo De Paul with a masterful volley at the far post at the start of the match.
The Atletico Madrid midfielder then almost doubled the lead three minutes before the break when he hit the post and, moments later, Fiorentina’s Nicolas Gonzalez shot narrowly wide.
Messi replaced Alvarez in the 53rd minute, with Scaloni looking to seal victory against a disciplined and well-organized Paraguayan side.
A direct corner from the right from Messi almost went on target, but hit Carlos Coronel’s left post. And almost having obtained a free kick at the entrance to the area, the Inter Miami player curled his shot onto the same post.
Argentina travels next Wednesday on the fourth day of the qualifiers to Peru, beaten Thursday in Chile (2-0).