Argentina secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Chile in their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying clash on Thursday, continuing their dominant run in the South American qualifiers.

Despite the rich history of intense encounters between the two sides — including the infamous 1942 South American Championship walkout and Argentina’s dramatic 2016 Copa America final loss — this latest meeting proved relatively subdued.

With qualification for the 2026 tournament already secured, Argentina rested several senior players, including skipper Lionel Messi, who started on the bench. 

The reigning world champions fielded a youthful attack led by Julián Álvarez, Nico Paz, and Giovanni Simeone.

Chile, playing in front of a home crowd, opened brightly. Alexis Sánchez tested Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez with a powerful strike in the third minute, but the Aston Villa shot-stopper was equal to the task.

Argentina responded swiftly, gaining control of possession and pressing higher. The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when Thiago Almada delivered a precise through ball to Álvarez, who coolly chipped Chilean goalkeeper Brayan Cortés. The ball ricocheted off the post and crossed the line, giving Argentina the lead.

Chile showed greater urgency in the second half, launching multiple attacks after the hour mark. However, Argentina’s compact defensive shape and Martínez’s crucial saves denied the hosts an equaliser.

With this win, Argentina maintained their unbeaten run and extended their lead at the top of the CONMEBOL table, while Chile’s qualification hopes are hanging by a thread as they sit at the bottom.

Looking ahead, Argentina will face Colombia and Chile will meet Bolivia on June 10. The top six teams from the South American qualifiers will secure direct entry into the 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Source: online 

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