In a tense CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier at the iconic Estadio Centenario, Argentina secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Uruguay, placing them on the verge of confirming their spot in the 2026 World Cup.
The match, played on Friday, March 21, 2025, saw a depleted Argentine side, missing key players Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez, and Paulo Dybala due to injuries, rise to the occasion.
The deadlock was broken in the 68th minute when Thiago Almada, currently on loan at Lyon from Botafogo, unleashed a spectacular 25-yard strike, leaving Uruguay’s goalkeeper Sergio Rochet helpless as the ball nestled into the top corner. The assist came from Julian Alvarez.
This goal ignited celebrations amongst the Argentine contingent and silenced the fervent home crowd.
Almada, who made history as the first active MLS player to win a World Cup after a late call-up for the 2022 tournament while playing for Atlanta United, once again proved his worth on the international stage.
Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “When one player is missing, another comes in. How can I not be satisfied, not just for the result but for how they gave it their all. The satisfaction comes from the fact that the team played a complete match.”
This victory served as sweet revenge for Argentina, who suffered a 2-0 defeat to Uruguay in Buenos Aires last November.
Uruguay, entering the match five points behind Argentina in the qualifying table, were unable to replicate their previous success.
The match concluded with a late red card for Argentina’s Nicolas Gonzalez in the 90th minute plus five, following a high challenge.
However, Argentina managed to hold on for the victory, extending their lead at the top of the South American qualifying group to six points over Ecuador.
Ecuador, in their own qualifier, secured a 2-1 victory over Venezuela, with former West Ham and Everton forward Enner Valencia scoring both goals.
With five qualifying matches remaining, Argentina now has the opportunity to solidify their qualification for the 2026 World Cup when they face third-placed Brazil at home on Tuesday. A victory in that highly anticipated clash would all but guarantee their place in the tournament.
