Argentina strengthened its lead in the South American FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying with a commanding 3-0 home victory over Chile on Thursday. Second-half goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez, and Paulo Dybala secured the win, solidifying Argentina’s dominant form, having lost just two of their last 64 matches over the past five years while claiming four major titles.
Despite the absence of stars Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria, who received a tribute at the Monumental Stadium following Di Maria’s international retirement, the Copa America champions showcased their depth and control.
Coach Lionel Scaloni highlighted Paulo Dybala’s role in the team, saying, “We didn’t even ask Paulo about the jersey number, we gave him the #10 because we believe he’s a player who deserves to wear it. His teammates convinced him, saying he was the one who had to carry it.”
Dybala expressed his excitement at returning to the national team after a period of uncertainty: “I was really eager to come back… I thought I wouldn’t, but I did, I played, and I ended up scoring.”
Match Highlights
Argentina broke the deadlock three minutes into the second half when Alexis Mac Allister fired home from a Julian Alvarez cross. Alvarez then extended the lead in the 84th minute with a spectacular long-range shot, before substitute Paulo Dybala sealed the win in stoppage time.
The victory puts Argentina five points ahead of second-placed Uruguay, who play Paraguay on Friday. Argentina’s next match is a rematch of the Copa America final against Colombia on Tuesday, while Chile will host Bolivia.
Bolivia’s Historic Win Over Venezuela
Meanwhile, Bolivia claimed a dominant 4-0 victory over Venezuela in La Paz, taking advantage of the high-altitude conditions. The match, played at 4,150 meters above sea level, marked a new altitude record for an international fixture. Ramiro Vaca, Carmelo Alganaraz, Miguel Terceros, and Enzo Monteiro were on target as Bolivia secured their second win in the qualifiers, moving them into seventh place.
Bolivia will face Chile on Tuesday, while Venezuela will play Uruguay.
Key Points:
- Argentina’s Victory: Argentina defeated Chile 3-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier, with second-half goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez, and Paulo Dybala.
- Strong Form: Argentina has lost only two of their last 64 matches in the past five years, winning four major titles during this period.
- Absence of Messi and Di Maria: Despite missing key players Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria, Argentina looked dominant. Di Maria was honored at the Monumental Stadium following his international retirement.
- Paulo Dybala’s Role: Dybala wore the #10 jersey for the match, with coach Lionel Scaloni expressing confidence in his ability to carry the number. Dybala scored a late goal to seal the win.
- Upcoming Matches: Argentina will play Colombia next, while Chile faces Bolivia.
- Bolivia’s Win Over Venezuela: Bolivia defeated Venezuela 4-0 in a high-altitude match, setting a record for the highest international fixture. Bolivia now sits in seventh place in the qualifiers.
