Santiago – Saba:
The Argentine national team solidified its position at the top of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers by defeating host Chile 1-0 today at the Santiago National Stadium. The victory, Argentina's fourth consecutive and eleventh overall in the qualifiers, boosts their tally to 34 points, a 10-point lead over second-place Ecuador.
Atlético Madrid striker Julian Alvarez scored the sole goal in the 15th minute. Argentine captain Lionel Messi, returning after a months-long absence, entered the match as a substitute in the 57th minute.
In other qualifiers, Brazil was held to a goalless draw by Ecuador in their first match under new coach Carlo Ancelotti, remaining in fourth place with 22 points. Paraguay defeated Uruguay 2-0, moving into third place with 24 points and nearing qualification, while Uruguay dropped to fifth with 21 points.
The Argentine national team solidified its position at the top of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers by defeating host Chile 1-0 today at the Santiago National Stadium. The victory, Argentina's fourth consecutive and eleventh overall in the qualifiers, boosts their tally to 34 points, a 10-point lead over second-place Ecuador.
Atlético Madrid striker Julian Alvarez scored the sole goal in the 15th minute. Argentine captain Lionel Messi, returning after a months-long absence, entered the match as a substitute in the 57th minute.
In other qualifiers, Brazil was held to a goalless draw by Ecuador in their first match under new coach Carlo Ancelotti, remaining in fourth place with 22 points. Paraguay defeated Uruguay 2-0, moving into third place with 24 points and nearing qualification, while Uruguay dropped to fifth with 21 points.