Argentina’s difficult run in World Cup qualifying continued Thursday as the reigning champions suffered a surprising 2-1 defeat to Paraguay in Asunción. Despite an early goal from Lautaro Martinez, the team could not hold on, with Paraguay securing victory through stunning goals from Antonio Sanabria and Omar Alderete. The loss raises questions about Argentina’s recent form, as they have now won only one of their last four qualifying matches.
A Promising Start Undone by a Moment of Magic
Argentina began the match with confidence and intensity, taking the lead in just the 11th minute. Lautaro Martinez showed his class, making a perfectly-timed run to meet a pass from Enzo Fernandez and calmly finishing to put his team ahead. The Inter Milan forward was the standout player in Argentina’s attack, consistently troubling the Paraguayan defense with his movement and link-up play with Julian Alvarez.
However, the lead was short-lived. Paraguay responded just eight minutes later with an unforgettable goal. Antonio Sanabria scored a sensational bicycle kick from inside the box, leaving goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez with no chance. The incredible strike leveled the score and completely shifted the momentum of the game, energizing the home crowd.
Messi’s Quiet Night and a Lackluster Attack
While Martinez was a constant threat, the rest of Argentina’s attack failed to make a significant impact. Lionel Messi, the team’s captain and creative engine, had an unusually subdued game. Playing in a deeper, inverted role, he struggled to find space in dangerous areas and seemed disconnected from his fellow attackers.
His inability to influence the game in the final third left the team without its usual creative spark. This reliance on Messi’s individual brilliance was exposed, as other players failed to step up. Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul missed a clear opportunity to equalize in the second half, sending his shot well over the crossbar from a promising position.
Defensive Collapse After a Key Injury
Argentina’s defensive stability crumbled in the second half, triggered by an injury to a key player. Cristian Romero, who had been a solid presence in the first half, was forced to leave the match with a right foot injury. His departure unsettled the backline, and his replacement, Leonardo Balerdi, struggled to cope with the pressure.
The decisive moment came from a defensive error. A breakdown in communication between Balerdi and Nicolas Otamendi allowed Omar Alderete to get free on a set piece. He powerfully headed home a cross from Diego Gomez to give Paraguay the lead, a goal that proved to be the winner. The fullbacks also had a difficult night, often getting outpaced by Paraguay’s wingers.
| Player | Rating |
| Lautaro Martinez | 8/10 |
| Enzo Fernandez | 8/10 |
| Julian Alvarez | 7/10 |
| Lionel Messi | 5/10 |
| Cristian Romero | 6/10 |
What This Loss Means for the Champions
Coach Lionel Scaloni tried to change the game with substitutions, bringing on players like Alejandro Garnacho and Leandro Paredes, but they failed to provide the needed spark. The loss, while disappointing, does not derail Argentina’s campaign, as they remain at the top of the CONMEBOL standings.
However, the performance highlights growing concerns for Scaloni to address before their next match against Peru. Key issues for the team moving forward include:
- Defensive Stability: The team must find a way to cope without Romero and improve communication at the back.
- Reducing Reliance on Messi: Other players in the attack need to become more influential when the captain has an off night.
- Regaining Rhythm: The squad needs to rediscover the cohesion and form that led them to World Cup glory.
For now, Argentina must reflect on a frustrating night in Asunción, where their recent vulnerabilities were on full display.
