On the morning of November 20, the Argentina team will host the Peru team in the 12th match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in South America. The Argentina team is facing the task of having to win this match after they unexpectedly lost 1-2 to Paraguay in the previous match.
However, the visiting team Peru defended very tightly with a large number of defenders, making it difficult for Argentina to approach the goal.
Everything changed in the 55th minute, when Lionel Messi shined. The Inter Miami superstar made a powerful run into the Peru penalty area, attracting five opponents. Messi then delicately crossed the ball to Lautaro Martinez, who finished with a beautiful volley to put Argentina ahead.
Despite controlling the ball 74% and creating 10 shots, Argentina only had 3 shots on target. Attacking is still a big challenge for the Tango team, especially when Messi is not in such excellent form as before. However, the talent of Messi, who has won the Golden Ball 8 times, helped Argentina to a minimal 1-0 victory over Peru.
This result helps Argentina finish 2024 at the top of the South American 2026 World Cup qualifying standings, maintaining an eight-point gap with Paraguay, the team behind them in the play-off race. Argentina is gradually getting closer to a ticket to the 2026 World Cup finals.
