Santiago: Argentina and Chile have had a history of fierce rivalry in football over the years, from the 1942 South American Championship — Chile abandoned the game midway, alleging biased refereeing — to the 2016 Copa America final, where Argentina’s loss saw Lionel Messi briefly announce retirement. But their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier in Santiago on Thursday ended as a lacklustre 1-0 win for the Argentines, with Julian Alvarez netting the winner in the 23rd minute.
Argentina, having already qualified for the World Cup, started the game with its captain, Messi, on the bench, while youngsters like Nico Paz, Julian Alvarez and Giovanni Simeone formed the offensive.
However, it was Chile which had the first shot on target: Alexis Sanchez shooting at goal from outside the box, forcing a save by Emiliano Martínez in the 3rd minute.
The visitors pulled up their socks after that, denying any chance to the opponent in the first half and finding the breakthrough 13 minutes later.
Thiago Almada threaded a through ball to Alvarez in the final third, who chipped the ball over goalkeeper Brayan Cortes, and the ball crossed the line after hitting the inside of the woodwork.
Chile tried to get back into the game after the break, and almost scored minutes after the hour mark, shooting thrice on target. But Martinez’s quick reflexes and Argentina’s alert low block ensured full points for the Albiceleste.
The result gave Argentina an unassailable lead in the CONMEBOL standings, while Chile remained bottom of the table, with its World Cup dream potentially over.
Argentina plays Colombia next while Chile will lock horns against Bolivia, with both matches scheduled on June 10. The top six teams will qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Agencies
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