Paraguay Defeats Argentina 2-1 in World Cup Qualifier Match

In a thrilling World Cup qualifying match played on Friday in Paraguay, the home team defeated defending champions Argentina 2-1.

Argentina’s Lautaro Martínez gave his team the lead in the 11th minute of the first half. However, the lead was short-lived as Paraguay quickly responded. In the 19th minute, Paraguay’s Antonio Sanabria scored a brilliant goal, but it was initially ruled offside. After a review, the goal was confirmed, leveling the score at 1-1.

The match saw continued pressure from both teams, with Argentina’s fans eagerly awaiting a goal from captain Lionel Messi. Messi had one opportunity to score, but his attempt went wide. Meanwhile, Paraguay had several chances to score, including a near miss from Gustavo Gómez, whose header hit the post early in the second half.

In the 47th minute, Paraguay’s Omar Alderete scored a header to give his team a 2-1 lead, which they maintained until the final whistle. Despite both teams’ efforts in the second half, no further goals were scored.

The defeat was a rare one for Argentina in an away match. Despite the loss, Argentina remains at the top of the points table with 22 points, while Paraguay’s victory earned them 3 points, bringing their total to 16 points and placing them in 6th position on the table.