In a stunning twist 🌪️, Argentina faced a shocking 2-1 defeat against Paraguay in Thursday's World Cup qualifier! ⚽🔥
Things started off bright for Argentina when Enzo Fernandez sent a deep pass to Lautaro Martinez, who smashed in a thunderous shot just 11 minutes in! 🎯 Initially ruled offside, VAR came to the rescue and the goal stood! 🖥️👌
But Paraguay wasn't about to back down! Moments later, Gustavo Gomez's header rattled the crossbar, and soon after, Antonio Sanabria pulled off an incredible bicycle kick 🚲 that left goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez rooted to the spot! 😮
Argentina seemed taken aback as their captain Lionel Messi struggled to make an impact. He was kept quiet by Paraguay's solid defense, and even a couple of fouls on him by Omar Alderete didn't tilt the game in their favor. 🤕
Just two minutes into the second half, Alderete himself headed in Paraguay's second goal from a free kick after Julio Enciso was fouled. 🎯
Despite some efforts, including a missed opportunity by Rodrigo de Paul, Argentina couldn't find the equalizer. Paraguay's defense held firm, and the visitors couldn't capitalize on their chances. 🛡️
\"We played a great game overall, but their goals came from our mistakes. We need to fix our lapses on set pieces,\" said Lautaro Martinez after the match. 🎙️
Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni added, \"The early second-half goal made everything more difficult. We have to congratulate the opponent, who defended very well.\" 🤝
This defeat leaves Argentina still topping the standings with 22 points from 11 games, but with something to ponder as they prepare to host Peru next Tuesday. Paraguay, meanwhile, are on a high as they climb to sixth place. 🚀
Reference(s):
Argentina suffer shock 2-1 defeat at Paraguay in World Cup qualifier
cgtn.com
