
Date: November 15, 2024
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers (CONMEBOL)
Result: Paraguay 1-0 Argentina
Match Summary:
In a stunning FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier, Paraguay managed to defeat Argentina 1-0 in Asunción, claiming a crucial victory on home soil. The result not only handed Paraguay a vital three points in their bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup but also dealt a surprising blow to Argentina, the 2022 World Cup champions.
The game, which was expected to be a relatively straightforward win for Argentina, was filled with drama, as Paraguay held firm defensively and capitalized on their chance to secure the upset.
Goals:
- 1-0 Paraguay (61’): The only goal of the match came in the second half when Antonio Sanabria scored after a quick counter-attack. The goal came from a long ball played forward, and Sanabria beat Argentina’s defense to slot the ball past Emiliano Martínez. His calm finish under pressure gave Paraguay a lead that they would protect for the remainder of the match.
Match Highlights:
- First Half:
- Argentina dominated possession early on, but Paraguay defended resolutely, with their backline working hard to contain Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez, and Julián Álvarez. While Argentina created some half-chances, none of them were clinical enough to break the deadlock.
- Paraguay showed glimpses of counter-attacking potential, but Emiliano Martínez, Argentina’s goalkeeper, was alert when needed to deny Miguel Almirón and Óscar Romero.
- Second Half:
- The game came alive in the 61st minute when Paraguay broke through. A swift counter-attack caught Argentina off guard, and Antonio Sanabria made the most of a precise pass to score the only goal of the match. Sanabria’s cool finish gave Paraguay the lead.
- After the goal, Argentina tried to respond by increasing their pressure on Paraguay’s defense, but Paraguay remained organized and resilient, denying the likes of Messi and Martínez from creating clear-cut chances.
- Paraguay’s defense, led by Gustavo Gómez and Fabián Balbuena, was impeccable, and goalkeeper Roberto Fernández made key saves to preserve the lead.
- Argentina’s Struggles:
Despite Messi’s best efforts to orchestrate attacks and lead his team, Argentina was unable to break down Paraguay‘s stubborn defense. Several of their set-piece opportunities and attacks were thwarted, and they struggled to create clear chances in the final third.
Player Ratings and Key Performers:
- Paraguay:
- Antonio Sanabria (Goal Scorer, 8/10): The striker’s smart movement and composure in front of goal secured Paraguay the vital three points. His tireless work rate also contributed to the defensive efforts.
- Gustavo Gómez (Defender, 8/10): One of the standout defensive performers, Gómez made crucial interceptions and clearances to deny Argentina any clear shots on goal.
- Roberto Fernández (Goalkeeper, 7.5/10): A solid performance from Fernández, who made key saves to ensure Paraguay’s clean sheet and kept Argentina from scoring.
- Argentina:
- Lionel Messi (Forward, 6/10): Despite showing flashes of brilliance, Messi couldn’t find the breakthrough for Argentina. His free-kick efforts and dribbles were neutralized by Paraguay’s organized defense.
- Lautaro Martínez (Forward, 5.5/10): Struggled to get into the game and couldn’t link up effectively with Messi. Martínez missed a few half-chances in front of goal.
- Emiliano Martínez (Goalkeeper, 6/10): Although he had little to do during the first half, Martínez couldn’t stop Sanabria’s goal. His distribution was also a bit shaky in the second half.
What This Means for Both Teams:
- Paraguay:
This unexpected victory is a massive boost for Paraguay’s World Cup qualification hopes. With the win, they climb up the CONMEBOL qualifiers table and are firmly in the race for a spot in the 2026 World Cup. The win also showcases the strength of Paraguay’s defense and their ability to capitalize on set-piece and counter-attacking opportunities. - Argentina:
For Argentina, this defeat is a significant setback. As the World Cup champions, they were expected to continue their dominant form in the qualifiers. This loss may have implications for their momentum as they continue their qualification campaign. However, with players like Messi and a talented squad, Argentina remains in a strong position, though they will need to bounce back in their next matches.
Next Steps:
- Paraguay will face Chile in their next qualifier, looking to build on their impressive victory over Argentina.
- Argentina will need to regroup quickly as they face Bolivia in their next match, hoping to get back on track after this disappointing result.