Argentina solidified its top spot in the South American World Cup Qualifiers with an impressive 3-0 victory over Chile on Thursday. Goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Julián Álvarez, and Paulo Dybala secured the win at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. Despite missing key figures like Lionel Messi and Ángel Di María, Argentina displayed dominance and composure, maintaining their perfect record in the qualifying campaign.
The match began with both teams probing for opportunities, but Argentina’s superiority gradually became evident. The reigning Copa América champions demonstrated fluid ball movement, and though Chile initially held their ground defensively, they struggled to threaten the Argentine goal.
The deadlock was broken shortly after the halftime whistle. In the 48th minute, Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister connected with a low cross from Julián Álvarez, slotting the ball into the net with precision. Mac Allister’s first-time finish from close range gave the home side a deserved lead and set the tone for what would follow.
Chile attempted to regroup after conceding, but Argentina’s midfield dominance, led by Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernández, stifled any meaningful build-up from the visitors. Chile, facing a well-organized Argentine defense, found it difficult to create clear-cut chances, and Argentina’s confidence only grew as the game progressed.
As the match wore on, Argentina’s control over possession became even more pronounced. Their patient build-up play eventually paid off again in the 84th minute. Manchester City striker Julián Álvarez, who had been a constant threat throughout the match, received the ball outside the penalty area. With a swift touch, Álvarez unleashed a powerful long-range strike that soared into the top corner, leaving Chilean goalkeeper Brayan Cortés with no chance. This goal doubled Argentina’s advantage and effectively put the game out of reach for the visitors.
In stoppage time, Paulo Dybala, who had come on as a substitute, added a third goal to further secure Argentina’s victory. The Roma forward found himself in a favorable position after a well-executed counterattack, calmly finishing to make it 3-0. Dybala’s goal was the final nail in the coffin for Chile, who had little to show for their efforts throughout the match.
The victory, while impressive, also marked a special moment for Ángel Di María. The Argentine winger, who recently announced his retirement from international football, was honored with a tribute at the Monumental Stadium before the match. Di María, a veteran of the national team, received a standing ovation from the crowd, celebrating his significant contributions to Argentina’s football legacy.
With this win, Argentina maintained their unbeaten run in the qualifiers, collecting 18 points from their six matches. They now sit comfortably at the top of the table, five points clear of second-placed Uruguay, who were set to host Paraguay on Friday. The triumph not only reinforced Argentina’s dominance in the region but also showcased the depth and quality of their squad, even in the absence of their star players.
For Chile, the loss was a setback in their bid to secure a World Cup berth. Despite flashes of resilience, they were unable to cope with Argentina’s relentless attacking pressure. The defeat left them with plenty to reflect on as they prepare for their next qualifier against Bolivia, a crucial fixture that could determine their chances of remaining competitive in the qualification race.
Argentina will travel to Colombia for their next qualifying match. The fixture is highly anticipated as it serves as a rematch of the 2021 Copa América final, where Argentina emerged victorious. Colombia, a strong side with aspirations of their own, will be eager to test Argentina’s resolve and potentially hand them their first setback in the qualifiers.
Despite the challenges ahead, Argentina’s impressive depth and form make them firm favorites in the upcoming clash. Their ability to perform seamlessly without key players like Messi and Di María is a testament to the squad’s resilience and tactical maturity under coach Lionel Scaloni.
