Argentina returned to winning ways with a narrow 1–0 triumph over Peru in 2026 World Cup Qualifying action following its shocking 2–1 defeat to Paraguay.
Lionel Scaloni's team attempted to break down the Peru low block with crosses into the box and chipped passes over the backline. It didn't work well in the first half as Argentina was stifled with Julian Álvarez's shot smacking the post the only genuine chance the hosts had.
Just under 10 minutes into the second half, Lautaro Martínez opened the scoring with a brilliant volleyed strike that got the fans off their seats at La Bombonera. The legendary Lionel Messi created the goal by dribbling through the Peru defense before sending in a cross for Martínez to latch onto. The goal marked Messi's 58th international assist, which is tied for the most alongside United States legend Landon Donovan.
With the victory, Argentina is now on 25 points from 12 matches in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifying table. La Albiceleste will take the pitch again in March 2025 for more World Cup Qualifying action against Uruguay and Brazil.
