
Argentina's Joaquin Correa, above, and Paraguay's goalkeeper Anthony Silva view the ball during a qualifying soccer match for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 in Asuncion, Paraguay, Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021. (AP Photo/ Jorge Saenz)

Final Score: Paraguay 0-0 Argentina
Date: November 15, 2024
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers (CONMEBOL)
Venue: Estadio Defensores del Chaco, Asunción, Paraguay
Match Overview:
In a thrilling, yet frustrating encounter in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, Argentina were held to a goalless draw by Paraguay in Asunción. Despite dominating possession and creating multiple chances, Argentina and Lionel Messi were unable to break down the resolute Paraguayan defense.
Paraguay stood firm in defense and executed a disciplined game plan to frustrate Argentina, who came into the match as clear favorites. The stalemate was particularly disappointing for Argentina, who were hoping to extend their unbeaten run in the qualifiers and maintain their momentum towards qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Key Moments and Highlights:
- First Half:
- Argentina had the majority of possession early on but struggled to break through Paraguay’s defensive block.
- Lionel Messi was involved in nearly every attacking move, but the Paraguayan defense remained disciplined, with Gustavo Gómez and Fabián Balbuena putting in solid performances at the back.
- Messi came close to scoring just after the half-hour mark when he fired a powerful shot from distance, but it was parried away by Paraguayan goalkeeper Roberto Fernández.
- Second Half:
- The second half saw Argentina push harder for the goal, with Messi pulling the strings in midfield.
- In the 58th minute, Messi had a great opportunity when he latched onto a through ball, but his shot was blocked by Paraguay’s defense.
- Argentina’s best chance came in the 74th minute when a cross from Lautaro Martínez found Julián Álvarez inside the box, but his header went narrowly wide.
- Paraguay’s defense held strong throughout, with the home side also having their own chances on the counter-attack, but they were unable to find the back of the net.
- Frustrating Final Stages:
- As the match drew to a close, Argentina threw everything forward in search of a late winner, but Paraguay defended resolutely, blocking shots and clearing crosses.
- Messi was visibly frustrated, as despite his best efforts, the ball refused to find the back of the net for Argentina.
Post-Match Reactions:
- Lionel Messi expressed his frustration after the match: “It’s disappointing to have so much of the ball and not find a way to win. We tried everything, but Paraguay defended very well. We’ll need to learn from this and stay focused for the next match.”
- Paraguay’s Coach, Guillermo Barros Schelotto, praised his team’s resilience: “We worked hard to neutralize one of the best teams in the world. We showed great discipline, and the players deserve credit for their efforts.”
Analysis:
- Argentina showed their attacking intent throughout the match, but they were thwarted by an impressive defensive display from Paraguay. Messi was involved in nearly every attack, but without the support of his teammates finding the crucial final ball or finish, the team struggled to break down the home side.
- Paraguay, on the other hand, demonstrated solid organization and excellent defensive tactics, ensuring Argentina could not penetrate their backline. Despite having limited possession, Paraguay showed sharpness on the counter and had a few promising moments but could not capitalize.
Standings Implications:
- The draw keeps Argentina at the top of the CONMEBOL standings, but Paraguay will be pleased to have secured an important point at home.
- Argentina remains in a strong position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, but this result will feel like a missed opportunity to strengthen their lead in the qualifiers.
- Paraguay, though not securing a win, will take confidence from their performance, knowing they were able to hold a team like Argentina to a draw on home soil.