Paraguay ended a 15-year drought against Argentina in stunning fashion, defeating Lionel Messi’s La Albiceleste 2-1 in a dramatic World Cup qualifier on home soil. This monumental victory not only reignited Paraguay’s hopes for qualification but also demonstrated their resilience against one of football’s greatest teams.
A Charged Atmosphere Sets the Tone
The stage was set for a fiery clash at Asunción’s Estadio Defensores del Chaco. In a bold move, Paraguayan President Fernando Villasboa banned fans from wearing Lionel Messi jerseys in the stadium, fueling an already electric atmosphere. This symbolic gesture added a layer of intensity to the match, signaling Paraguay’s intent to make history.
Argentina, fresh off a string of dominant performances in the qualifiers, entered as heavy favorites. Messi, recovering from a recent Inter Miami playoff exit, had the weight of the nation on his shoulders. Yet, what followed was a testament to Paraguay’s determination and tactical prowess.
Argentina’s Early Dominance
Argentina wasted no time asserting their authority. Their precision passing and relentless attacking overwhelmed Paraguay in the opening minutes. The breakthrough came in the 11th minute when Lautaro Martínez latched onto a sublime chipped pass from Enzo Fernández. His left-footed strike found the back of the net, surviving a tense VAR review to give Argentina a 1-0 lead.
The visitors looked poised for another commanding performance, but Paraguay had other plans.
Sanabria’s Stunning Equalizer
Paraguay refused to back down. In the 36th minute, Antonio Sanabria delivered a moment of pure magic that will be remembered for years to come. The Torino forward executed an acrobatic overhead kick that left goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez helpless. The ball rocketed into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the home crowd.
Sanabria’s goal wasn’t just an equalizer—it was a statement of intent. It embodied Paraguay’s resilience and marked one of the standout moments of the qualification campaign.
GOLAZO de Sanabria para que Paraguay le empate a Argentina pic.twitter.com/ddEj6ovHrl
— En el VAR (@EnElVar) November 14, 2024
Second-Half Heroics
Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni made adjustments at halftime, including substituting Cristian Romero, who had been walking a fine line after a rash first half. However, these changes did little to halt Paraguay’s momentum.
Three minutes into the second half, Paraguay seized the lead. A beautifully floated free-kick from Diego Gómez found Omar Alderete, who rose above the Argentine defense to head the ball into the far corner. At 2-1, Paraguay took control, forcing Argentina to chase the game.
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A Defensive Masterclass
For the remainder of the match, Paraguay showcased defensive discipline and tactical awareness. Argentina pushed forward relentlessly, with Messi orchestrating attacks and Rodrigo De Paul coming agonizingly close to equalizing. De Paul’s one-on-one effort was squandered, his international goal drought continuing since 2022.
Paraguay’s backline, anchored by Santiago Rojas in goal, held firm. Each defensive block and clearance was met with deafening cheers from the crowd, as the Albirroja inched closer to a historic victory.
❌ Saturday: Leo Messi’s Inter Miami knocked out of the MLS Cup playoffs
❌ Thursday: Leo Messi’s Argentina fall to Paraguay in World Cup qualifying
Two defeats in one week… pic.twitter.com/c5f1r4lvtV
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) November 15, 2024
Key Match Stats
- Man of the Match: Diego Gómez, whose precision free-kick set up the winning goal.
- Goals Scored: Lautaro Martínez (11’) for Argentina; Antonio Sanabria (36’) and Omar Alderete (48’) for Paraguay.
- Historic Achievement: Paraguay’s first home victory over Argentina since 2009.
The Implications for Paraguay
This victory was about more than just three points. Paraguay’s win provided a four-point cushion over Venezuela in the CONMEBOL standings, solidifying their position in the playoff spot. With automatic qualification still within reach, this result could serve as a turning point for their campaign.
For coach Guillermo Barros Schelotto, the victory was validation of his strategies and leadership. It also reinvigorated the team’s confidence as they prepare to face South America’s elite in the remaining fixtures.A Rare Misstep for Argentina
For Argentina, the loss was a surprising hiccup in an otherwise dominant qualification campaign. While their World Cup spot is virtually secured, the defeat served as a reminder of the unpredictability of international football. Lionel Scaloni’s side will need to regroup quickly to avoid further setbacks.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
- Paraguay: This win gives them momentum as they approach critical matches. Maintaining this level of performance will be key to securing their place in the World Cup.
- Argentina: With their qualification all but guaranteed, Argentina can use this loss as an opportunity to recalibrate and address weaknesses ahead of the tournament.
A Night of Resilience and Redemption
Paraguay’s 2-1 victory over Argentina wasn’t just a win; it was a statement of belief and determination. From Sanabria’s breathtaking equalizer to Alderete’s decisive header, the match showcased the spirit of a team unwilling to back down.
For Argentina, it’s a reminder that even the best teams are not invincible. For Paraguay, it’s a beacon of hope that their World Cup dreams are alive and well. As the qualification campaign heats up, this match will be remembered as a defining moment in Paraguay’s journey.
