Argentina suffers shock defeat to Paraguay in World Cup Qualifier
In a stunning turn of events, Argentina fell 2-1 to Paraguay in their 2026 FIFA World Cup CONMEBOL qualifier on Thursday. The match kicked off with Argentina taking an early lead in the 11th minute. Enzo Fernandez delivered a deep pass to Lautaro Martinez, who unleashed a thunderous shot. Initially ruled offside, the goal was awarded after a VAR review.
Paraguay didn’t take long to respond. Gustavo Gomez’s header struck the crossbar, and soon after, Antonio Sanabria executed a spectacular bicycle kick, leveling the score and leaving goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez with no chance.
The visitors struggled to regain their footing. Captain Lionel Messi was notably quiet throughout the first half, only managing a single shot that went wide. Early in the second half, Paraguay seized the lead when Omar Alderete headed in from a free kick following a foul on Julio Enciso.
Despite Argentina’s efforts to equalize, including a missed opportunity by Rodrigo de Paul, Paraguay held firm defensively. Striker Lautaro Martinez reflected on the loss, saying, “We controlled the ball. Their goals came from our mistakes. We need to fix our lapses on set pieces.” Coach Lionel Scaloni added, “We have to congratulate the opponent, who defended very well.”
Argentina remains atop the standings with 22 points and is set to host Peru next. Paraguay’s victory lifts them to sixth place, intensifying the competition in the CONMEBOL qualifiers.
Brazil Held to 1-1 Draw by Venezuela After Vinicius Jr. Misses Penalty
Earlier in the evening, Brazil was held to a surprising 1-1 draw by Venezuela. Raphinha put Brazil ahead with a brilliant left-footed free-kick in the 43rd minute. However, just seconds into the second half, Venezuela’s Telasco Segovia equalized with a swift shot from the edge of the box.
Brazil dominated possession and created multiple chances but failed to capitalize. Vinicius Jr. had a golden opportunity to secure the win after being fouled in the box by goalkeeper Rafael Romo. Unfortunately for Brazil, Romo saved Vinicius’s penalty, and the striker missed the rebound.
The match ended on a tense note as Venezuela’s Alexander Gonzalez was sent off for striking both Gabriel Martinelli and Vinicius Jr. Brazil, the five-time World Cup champions, now sit third in the standings with 17 points, while Venezuela is seventh with 12 points. The top six teams will secure a spot at the 2026 finals.
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Argentina suffer shock 2-1 defeat at Paraguay in World Cup qualifier
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