Argentina continued their dominance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying tournament by securing a 3-0 victory over Chile on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The win further solidified Argentina's position at the top of the CONMEBOL qualifying standings, with 18 points from six matches.
Key Highlights of the Match
The match saw Argentina take the lead just three minutes into the second half when Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister scored with a precise low finish. Mac Allister's goal was set up by a cross from Julian Alvarez, who also found the net in the 84th minute with a powerful strike from distance.
Substitute Paulo Dybala sealed the victory for Argentina in stoppage time, ensuring a commanding 3-0 win. Despite the absence of talismans Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria, who received a tribute at the Monumental stadium before the match, Argentina showed no signs of weakness.
Argentina's Dominant Performance
Argentina's performance was marked by their clinical efficiency and creativity in attack. Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez caused significant problems for the Chilean defense, while Mac Allister controlled the midfield alongside Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernandez.
The reigning world champions demonstrated their ability to win without Messi, who is recovering from an ankle injury. This victory edges Argentina closer to securing their spot at the 2026 finals in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
Chile's Struggles Continue
Chile, on the other hand, continues to struggle in the qualifying tournament. They remain in eighth position with just one win from six games, two draws, and three losses. The team is still trying to find its footing after being eliminated from the Copa America by North American upstarts Canada.
Chile's starting lineup included Gabriel Arias in goal, Mauricio Isla, Paulo Diaz, Thomas Galdames, Matias Catalan, Marcelino Nunez, Rodrigo Echeverria, Felipe Loyola, Dario Osorio, Eduardo Vargas, and Victor Davila. Despite their efforts, they were unable to breach Argentina's well-organized defense.
Impact on the Qualifying Standings
Argentina's win leaves them five points clear of second-placed Uruguay, who host Paraguay on Friday. The top six teams in the final standings will qualify automatically for the 2026 finals in North America, while the seventh-placed team will compete in an inter-confederation playoff.
Argentina will next face Colombia on September 11 in a rematch of the Copa America final. Meanwhile, Chile hosts Bolivia, who beat Venezuela earlier on Thursday.
Tribute to Angel Di Maria
Before the match, Argentina paid tribute to Angel Di Maria, who announced his international retirement after winning the Copa America. Di Maria was honored by his former teammates in a pregame ceremony and watched the match from the stands, adding an emotional touch to the evening.
The tribute set the tone for the match, as Argentina had more to play for than just points in 2026 World Cup qualifyingthey owed their friend, teammate, and legend a performance to remember.
Conclusion
Argentina's convincing win over Chile underscores their strength and determination in the qualifying tournament. As they move forward with their next match against Colombia, they remain poised to secure their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.
