In a surprising turn of events, Argentina’s unbeaten streak since clinching the World Cup title hit a roadblock. Uruguay emerged victorious with a stunning 2-0 win against Argentina at La Bombonera Stadium in Buenos Aires during a World Cup qualifying match, marking a significant triumph under their new coach Marcelo Bielsa.
This defeat snapped Argentina’s undefeated run in competitive matches since their group-stage opener against Saudi Arabia in the previous World Cup. It also ended their unbeaten streak at home, which had stood firm since a 2016 loss to Paraguay during World Cup qualifying.
On the other side, Brazil faced its own challenges, suffering a 2-1 defeat against Colombia in the round-robin competition. Luiz Diaz’s header goals led Colombia to an impressive turnaround at the Metropolitano Stadium in Barranquilla, marking their first victory over Brazil in World Cup qualifying in 15 matches.
Despite this setback, Argentina maintains its lead in the South American qualifying group with 12 points from five matches. Uruguay follows closely behind in second place with 10 points, while Colombia and Venezuela hold nine and eight points, respectively. Brazil, currently in fifth position with seven points, is gearing up to host the World Cup champions at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.
Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, where 48 teams will compete, the top six South American teams are assured direct entry. The seventh-place team still has an opportunity to secure a berth through an intercontinental playoff.
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The match between Argentina and Uruguay showcased Uruguay’s aggression from the outset against the reigning World Cup champions. The deadlock was broken in the 42nd minute when Matias Viña capitalized on an error, providing the opportunity for Ronald Araújo to find the net.
Despite Argentina’s attempts to equalize, highlighted by Lionel Messi’s free kick and Nicolás Otamendi’s close-range shot, Uruguay’s defense, led by Sergio Rochet’s crucial saves, maintained their advantage. Darwin Núnez’s late counter sealed Uruguay’s victory.
Reflecting on the match, Messi acknowledged Uruguay’s prowess, stating, “We never felt comfortable in this match. Uruguay is a physical team, they have good teamwork. It is always like that against them.”
Coach Lionel Scaloni admitted that Uruguay outperformed his team, emphasizing, “We cannot think that because we are world champions we will never lose again. We are not unbeatable.”
Despite the absence of Messi’s close friend Luis Suárez, who recently rejoined the Uruguayan national team, Uruguay’s performance underscored their strength and cohesion on the field. Their next challenge awaits against Bolivia after a previous victory over Brazil.
The defeat against Uruguay signifies a wake-up call for Argentina, highlighting the competitive nature of the World Cup qualifiers and the unpredictability of football on any given da
