Argentina defeated Peru 1-0 in their World Cup qualification match, with Lionel Messi providing an unforgettable assist that led to Lautaro Martinez’s stunning goal in the 55th minute.
Messi, who had a quiet first half, showed his brilliance after the break by evading three Peruvians to set up Martinez, whose acrobatic overhead kick found the back of the net.
This goal proved to be the match-winner, ensuring Argentina’s dominance in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualification standings, where they currently sit at the top with 25 points from 12 matches.
The match didn’t start off well for Argentina, with a lack of fluidity in the first half. Peru was resolute defensively, frustrating La Albiceleste’s attempts to break them down.
However, after the interval, Argentina showed much more urgency and finally broke through with Messi’s creative brilliance.
Despite strong defensive efforts from Peru, Argentina managed to hang on for the win, with their midfield duo of Enzo Fernandez and Rodrigo De Paul ensuring the defensive stability required to secure all three points.
Here’s how the Argentina players performed in their 1-0 win over Peru:
Goalkeeper & Defense
Emiliano Martinez (6/10): Was rarely tested but showed good distribution.
Nicolas Tagliafico (7/10): Solid at the back and provided excellent support going forward.
Nicolas Otamendi (7/10): A composed performance at the heart of the defense.
Lucas Balerdi (7/10): Filled in admirably for the injured Cristian Romero, offering stability at the back.
Gonzalo Montiel (6/10): Solid but didn’t have much influence on the attack.
Midfield
Enzo Fernandez (7/10): Dominated the midfield, orchestrating the play with his passing.
Alexis Mac Allister (6/10): Failed to make a significant impact, struggling to link up the play.
Rodrigo De Paul (7/10): Was exceptional in his defensive duties and also created a key chance.
Attack
Lionel Messi (9/10): The standout performer, his outrageous assist was the moment of the match. Though quiet in the first half, Messi delivered when it mattered most.
Lautaro Martinez (9/10): Was dangerous throughout, finishing Messi’s assist with a brilliant overhead kick.
Julian Alvarez (7/10): Worked hard off the ball, creating space for others but was less involved in the final third.
Subs & Manager
Nehuen Perez (N/A): Came on late but didn’t have time to influence the game.
Giuliano Simeone (N/A): A late substitute who couldn’t make an impact.
Giovani Lo Celso (N/A): Came on with a few minutes to spare.
Facundo Medina (N/A): Was introduced in stoppage time and had little time to make a difference.
Leandro Paredes (N/A): Also came on late in the match.
Lionel Scaloni (7/10): The coach made the right adjustments after the break, with Argentina coming out more determined and getting the crucial goal. Despite the narrow win, Scaloni’s tactical changes were key to the result
Argentina’s World Cup qualifying journey continues to show resilience, with Messi’s magical moments and a solid team effort driving them to the top of the standings
