Thiago Almada's Strike Seals Crucial Win for Argentina in World Cup Qualifying

Argentina secured a 1-0 victory over Uruguay in their CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying clash, with Thiago Almada stepping up in Lionel Messi's absence to net the game's only goal. The match was largely uneventful, characterized by a midfield battle and limited goal-scoring opportunities. However, Almada's moment of brilliance in the second half was enough to guide Argentina closer to the 2026 World Cup.

First Half: A Cagey Affair

The first half saw both teams struggle to create clear chances, with much of the action concentrated in midfield. Argentina's best opportunity came when Enzo Fernandez had a close-range shot cleared. The game lacked rhythm, with neither side managing to impose itself offensively.

Second Half: Almada's Moment of Magic

The pattern remained unchanged after halftime, with attacking moves being hard to come by. However, Thiago Almada provided the breakthrough, cutting inside from the left and curling a superb effort into the top corner. Following the goal, Argentina focused on game management, limiting Uruguay’s attacking threat and seeing out the win professionally.

Player Ratings

Goalkeeper & Defense

Emi Martinez (6/10): Involved in a first-half collision but had little else to deal with.
Nahuel Molina (5/10): Struggled defensively and was beaten in one-on-one situations.
Christian Romero (6/10): Kept possession well and had minimal defensive duties.
Nicolas Otamendi (6/10): Battled against Darwin Nunez and made key defensive interventions.
Nicolas Talarico (7/10): Pressed high and played a role in the goal buildup.

Midfield

Leandro Paredes (8/10): Controlled the midfield, won duels, and distributed the ball effectively.
Alexis Mac Allister (7/10): Energetic presence, broke lines with forward runs.
Enzo Fernandez (5/10): Struggled with efficiency in passing and link-up play.

Attack

Giuliano Simeone (5/10): Showed effort but lacked product.
Julian Alvarez (5/10): Isolated as the lone striker; struggled to impact the game.
Thiago Almada (8/10): Scored a stunning winner and showed flashes of creativity.

Substitutes & Manager

Nico Gonzalez (4/10): Added energy but saw red for a reckless challenge.
Exequiel Palacios (N/A): Limited time on the pitch.
Leonardo Balder (N/A): Limited time on the pitch.
Angel Correa (N/A): Limited time on the pitch.
Lionel Scaleni (7/10): Managed the team well despite Messi’s absence; a disciplined tactical display secured the victory.