Argentina secured its spot in the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Uruguay at the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo on March 21, 2025. The match, a crucial South American qualifier, saw the Albiceleste rise to the top of the standings with 28 points, significantly bolstering their hopes for the upcoming global tournament.
The defining moment of the match came in the second half when Thiago Almada scored a stunning goal from outside the box in the 68th minute, ensuring Argentina's triumph. This victory not only avenged the previous loss at home in November 2023, when Uruguay won 2-0, but it also continued Argentina's impressive campaign in the qualifiers, marked by nine wins, one draw, and three losses.
Despite not having their star player, Lionel Messi, Argentina demonstrated resilience. Cristian Romero noted the match's intensity, saying, “We knew it was going to be a tough match. They didn’t hurt us. In the second half, we controlled the match as we wanted and took an important victory.”
Uruguay, under the guidance of Marcelo Bielsa, started strong by dominating the ball possession initially and creating several scoring opportunities. Midfielders Federico Valverde and Rodrigo Bentancur, alongside Giorgian de Arrascaeta, attempted to break through Argentina’s defense. However, crucial saves by Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez denied them the breakthrough.
As the game progressed, Argentina adapted their strategy, countering Uruguay's attacking gameplay. Romero, who had returned from injury, engaged in heated exchanges with Uruguayan players like Darwin Núñez and Maximiliano Araújo, reflecting the match's competitive spirit. Romero, discussing his recovery, commented, “The injury was longer than I thought, I am very thankful to the physios of Argentina who helped me.”
Throughout the match, the tension escalated, culminating in the expulsion of Nicolás González during stoppage time for a foul on Nahitan Nández, leaving Argentina to finish the match with ten men. Nevertheless, the Argentine defense stood firm, ensuring that the one-goal lead would secure them all three points.
This clash marked the 196th classic encounter between Argentina and Uruguay, a rivalry deeply rooted in football history. Following the match, Argentina's focus quickly shifted to their upcoming challenge against Brazil, scheduled for March 25, 2025. This matchup promises to be another significant test, with Brazil currently sitting third in the qualifiers.
Uruguay's defeat leaves them in fourth place with 20 points, cooling their momentum as they prepare to face Bolivia next. The path is becoming more complicated as teams jostle for a place in the World Cup. Notably, Paraguay and Colombia, also in the running, are closely trailing behind.
The atmosphere at the Centenario during the match was electric, with Uruguay’s supporters passionately cheering their team on. However, it was the Argentine fans who left the stadium celebrating their national team’s achievement as they now focus on their World Cup journey. “Muchachos, ahora nos volvimos a ilusionar,” echoed through the stands, a song that had gained popularity during Argentina's triumphant run in the 2022 World Cup.
Argentina's victory has solidified their status as a football powerhouse, showcasing their depth and quality even without key players. Coach Lionel Scaloni has successfully molded a competitive unit that appears ready to face any challenge ahead. On the other hand, Bielsa’s side will need to regroup quickly to mount a serious challenge as the qualifiers move towards completion.
With this victory, the Argentinian team not only enhances their prospects for the World Cup but also reinforces their pride against a traditional rival. As the qualifiers continue, the stage is set for more thrilling matches and shifting allegiances in the quest for football’s biggest prize.
