Argentina takes another step forward in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, beat Uruguay 1-0|
Argentina achieved another big feat in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers when Thiago Almada scored a superb goal to beat Uruguay 1-0 in Montevideo. Reigning world champions Argentina were heading towards a draw in a tight match against Uruguay, but Almada’s magic moment turned the game around. Uruguay had previously beaten Argentina 2-0 in the qualifiers, but this time their attempt failed at the Centenario Stadium.
23-year-old attacking midfielder Almada controlled the ball on the edge of the box, took a touch, and landed a powerful strike that went past Uruguay goalkeeper Sergio Rochet into the far top corner.
Argentina suffered a small setback in the final moments of the match when Nicolas Gonzalez was shown a red card after making a reckless challenge on Uruguay defender Nahitan Nandez. But the late dismissal was no big deal for Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, who was delighted with the team’s performance even without the injured Lionel Messi.
What does this win mean for Argentina?
The win takes Argentina another step forward in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. If they beat their arch-rivals Brazil in Buenos Aires on Tuesday, they will become the first South American team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The tournament will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Argentina currently top the points table of the South American qualifiers, with 28 points from 13 matches. Ecuador is second with 22 points, and Brazil is third with 21 points. Uruguay is fourth with 20 points, and Paraguay is fifth with a goal difference.
Argentina’s win guarantees them no lower than seventh in the group, which means they will at least get a chance to make the inter-confederation playoffs. But the top 6 teams will qualify for the World Cup.
Ecuador also kept its World Cup hopes alive
On Friday, Ecuador also kept its World Cup dreams alive when it beat Venezuela 2-1, with veteran striker Enner Valencia scoring two goals to give Ecuador the win, and now it is trying to secure its country’s fifth World Cup qualification.
Ecuador coach Sebastian Beccacece praised the team’s performance, but at the same time he explained to the team that anything can still happen. He said, “When everything is going well, like today when we won three matches, we should remain cautious, calm, and humble. We have to move forward with discipline and work towards our goal.”
Next step: Argentina vs Brazil
Now Argentina’s focus is on the big match with Brazil on Tuesday. This match can not only help them qualify for the World Cup, but it can also strengthen their dominance in South America. The race for the title is tight as well, and every point will be important in every match.
This phase of qualifiers has become even more exciting, and fans will get to witness more drama, thrilling moments, and unforgettable performances. So, stay tuned!
