Argentina Triumphs Over Peru in World Cup Qualifiers

Summary of Key Points:

Argentina defeated Peru 1-0 in World Cup qualifiers.
Lautaro Martínez scored the only goal of the match.
Argentina leads South American qualifying with 25 points.
Peru remains at the bottom of the standings with 7 points.

occer Football - World Cup - South American Qualifiers - Argentina v Peru - Estadio Mas Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina - November 19, 2024 Argentina's Lautaro Martinez celebrates scoring their first goal.

Lautaro Martínez Shines

La Bombonera, Buenos Aires: Argentina edged past Peru 1-0 in the highly intense FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying match played at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires. Argentina's Lautaro Martínez scored a crucial goal in the tight win that saw all their chances of making it to the World Cup increase significantly as the tournament is hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

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Match Highlights

The turning point of the match occurred in the 55th minute when Lionel Messi delivered an exquisite cross into the penalty area. Lautaro Martínez capitalized on this and turned it into the goal that sealed the win for Argentina. Although the teams did not create enough clearcut chances, discipline definitely rewarded Argentina as they stayed in control throughout the game.

Argentina v Peru - Estadio Mas Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina - November 19, 2024 Argentina's Lionel Messi in action.

Argentina's Stranglehold in Qualifying

This success means Argentina has the high spot in the South American qualifying standings, with 25 points earned from 12 matches. The team stands firmly as one of the likely teams going to World Cup, with their talent and teamwork on the field reflected in this good performance. Peru had another dire performance and remained in the last position of the qualifying table with seven points. The team is under pressure as they seek to recover their place in the remaining matches.

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Top Performers

Lautaro Martínez's goal was a highlight, but really it was a team performance. The playmaking came from Lionel Messi, who made most of the plays for Argentina during offense. Meanwhile, Alex Valera and Sergio Peña tried their best in the Peruvian camp, but they just could not find ways past Argentina's back.

Emi Martinez in the frame.

Next Wave

As the qualifiers progress, Argentina will aim to build on this momentum, while Peru must regroup and strategize for their upcoming matches. The road to the World Cup is becoming clearer for some teams, while others face an uphill battle.

With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies