World champions Argentina suffered a 2-1 loss to Paraguay, while Brazil were held to a 1-1 draw by Venezuela in a challenging night for South America’s football giants in Thursday’s CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers.
Argentina started well with an early goal from Lautaro Martinez, whose low finish was initially ruled offside before a VAR check reversed the decision in Argentina’s favour in the 11th minute. However, Paraguay quickly responded, with Antonio Sanabria equalising with an impressive bicycle kick just eight minutes later.
Paraguay’s Omar Alderete then headed in the winner shortly after halftime from a cross by Inter Miami’s Diego Gomez. Argentina, who remain top of the standings with 22 points, found it hard to break through, despite Lionel Messi’s efforts to set up opportunities.
Meanwhile, Brazil, in third place on 17 points, were frustrated in Venezuela. Vinicius Junior missed a penalty after Telasco Segovia’s goal cancelled out a superb first-half free-kick from Raphinha. Venezuela’s resilient defence kept Brazil from regaining the lead, earning the hosts a valuable point.
In other qualifiers, Ecuador climbed to fifth place with a 4-0 victory over Bolivia, with Gonzalo Plata scoring twice after Enner Valencia’s opener.
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