Omar Alderete of Paraguay celebrates after scoring the team's second goal during the South American FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Paraguay and Argentina.
Paraguay vs Argentina Highlights, FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Messi and Co. Stumble 1-2 to PAR; Alderete, Sanabria Score.
In a dramatic turn of events at Asuncion, Paraguay managed a stunning 2-1 victory over reigning World Champion Argentina in the CONMEBOL FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. This riveting clash saw Paraguay execute a determined performance, capitalising on critical moments and benefiting from contentious decisions that left Lionel Messi and his Argentine squad frustrated.
First Half: Argentina's Early Strike and Paraguay’s Response
The match kicked off with Argentina displaying their characteristic flair and intensity. By the 11th minute, the visitors appeared to have taken control when Lautaro Martinez netted what seemed to be the opener. Enzo Fernandez's deft lobbed pass set up Martinez, who drilled a low shot into the net. The assistant referee initially raised the flag for offside, but after a VAR review, the goal was awarded, giving Argentina a 1-0 lead. The early advantage showcased Argentina's sharp attacking prowess.
However, Paraguay did not falter. They responded aggressively, pressing high and unsettling Argentina's midfield. By the 19th minute, Paraguay found their equaliser through a moment of sheer brilliance from Antonio Sanabria. Following a cross from the right, Alderete's header struck the crossbar, and the ball fell invitingly for Sanabria, who produced an acrobatic overhead kick to level the score at 1-1. The goal electrified the home crowd, and Argentina suddenly found themselves on the back foot.
Messi, as always, was instrumental in orchestrating Argentina’s attacking movements. He dropped deeper into midfield to recycle possession and tried to unlock Paraguay's defence with precise passes. Despite his best efforts, Paraguay remained resolute, with Miguel Almiron proving a constant threat on the break.
Messi’s Frustration and Missed Chances
As the first half progressed, Argentina's frustrations grew, particularly when Alderete was only shown a yellow card for a late challenge on Messi in the 33rd minute. Messi vehemently appealed for a second booking, but the referee waved away the protests. The World Champions struggled to maintain their composure, and as the whistle blew for halftime, Messi was visibly irate, expressing his displeasure to the officials over the unpunished fouls.
Before the break, Argentina managed a few more chances. In the 28th minute, Messi found Nahuel Molina with a long diagonal pass, but Molina's cross into the box was cleared by Paraguay's defence. Despite Argentina's dominance in possession, their attacking play lacked the precision needed to break down a disciplined Paraguayan backline.
Second Half: Alderete’s Controversial Winner
The second half began with Paraguay making their intentions clear, starting with a high tempo and pressing Argentina relentlessly. Just two minutes into the half, Paraguay delivered a crucial blow. In the 47th minute, Gustavo Gomez sent a free kick into the box, where Omar Alderete, who many felt should have been sent off earlier, rose high to head the ball into the net. The goal gave Paraguay a 2-1 lead, and Argentina’s frustration turned into desperation.
Lionel Messi, determined to spark a comeback, saw his shot palmed away by Paraguay's goalkeeper in the 79th minute. The Argentine talisman continued to battle against a well-organised Paraguayan defence, but even he struggled to find a way through. Alejandro Garnacho, who came on as a substitute in the 65th minute, tried to inject some pace and creativity into the game. Despite creating opportunities down the left flank, Argentina couldn't capitalise on their chances.
Paraguay’s Heroic Defence and Almiron’s Influence
Miguel Almiron, a standout player for Paraguay, led several dangerous counterattacks and played a crucial role in helping his side maintain the lead. His tireless work rate and skill kept Argentina’s defence on high alert. Almiron received a thunderous ovation when he was substituted in the 89th minute, a testament to his immense impact on the game.
Argentina pushed hard for an equaliser as the match approached its conclusion. Messi delivered a deep corner in the 86th minute, finding Valentin Castellanos at the far post, but the substitute forward failed to control his header. Paraguay's defence, led by Alderete and Gomez, stood firm, repelling wave after wave of Argentine attacks.
Final Whistle: A Massive Upset
As six minutes of stoppage time were added, Argentina poured forward with urgency. Nicolas Tagliafico and Gonzalo Montiel made overlapping runs, and Messi orchestrated attacks, but Paraguay's resolute defence held on. The final whistle at the 96th minute confirmed the upset: Paraguay 2-1 Argentina.
Argentina's defeat was a rare stumble for the World Champions, who, despite remaining top of the table with 22 points, will reflect on missed opportunities and controversial decisions. Paraguay, now sitting sixth with 16 points, celebrated a famous victory that keeps their World Cup qualifying hopes alive.
Post-Match Reactions: Questions and Controversy
After the match, Argentina’s coach and players expressed disappointment over the refereeing decisions, particularly Alderete not receiving a second yellow card. Messi, visibly frustrated, did not hide his feelings in post-match interviews, saying, “We gave everything, but sometimes it feels like luck and decisions go against us.”
Meanwhile, Paraguay’s coach hailed his team's resilience and Sanabria’s stunning equaliser. “The spirit and commitment of our players made the difference,” he remarked.
Looking Ahead
Argentina will need to regroup quickly, learning from this defeat as the qualifiers continue. Meanwhile, Paraguay’s victory could prove a crucial turning point in their campaign. Football fans will surely remember this thrilling encounter, marked by skill, controversy, and the enduring spirit of both teams.
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