Julian Alvarez Goal Secures Scrappy Argentina Win Over Chile in World Cup Qualifier
Julian Alvarez’s first-half strike helped Argentina edge past Chile 1-0 in a gritty World Cup qualifying clash on Thursday night in Santiago.
The Atletico Madrid forward netted the winner just 16 minutes in, finishing off a sharp counterattack started by Thiago Almada. Almada’s run and pinpoint assist allowed Alvarez to chip the goalkeeper and give La Albiceleste a vital early lead.
Argentina dominated the first half but struggled to maintain control late in the match. Despite Chile’s second-half pressure and multiple close chances, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez stood tall, producing two crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet.
With the win, Argentina climbed to 34 points from 15 games, extending their lead atop the CONMEBOL standings to 10 points over second-place Ecuador. Already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the result solidifies Argentina’s status as South America’s team to beat.
Lionel Messi made a second-half appearance in the 57th minute but had minimal impact on the match. Still, his presence brought calm to Argentina’s midfield during Chile’s late surge.
For Chile, the loss deepens their qualifying struggles. Sitting in 10th place with just 10 points, they are five points off the playoff spot and in serious danger of missing the World Cup.
Argentina Player Ratings vs Chile
Goalkeeper & Defense
- Emiliano Martinez (6/10): Key saves in the second half kept Argentina in front.
- Nahuel Molina (6/10): Quiet but defensively solid.
- Cristian Romero (7/10): Dominant at the back and dangerous on set pieces.
- Leonardo Balerdi (7/10): Strong passing and composure under pressure.
- Nicolas Tagliafico (7/10): Calm and consistent on the left flank.
Midfield
- Rodrigo De Paul (7/10): Energetic and dependable as ever.
- Exequiel Palacios (6/10): Efficient in possession, though not overly creative.
- Nico Paz (5/10): Struggled to make an impact before being subbed off early.
Attack
- Thiago Almada (8/10): A livewire on the wing and creator of the match-winning goal.
- Julian Alvarez (8/10): Took his chance well and led the line with energy.
- Giuliano Simeone (6/10): Worked hard but missed a golden opportunity late on.
Substitutes
- Lionel Messi (6/10): Brought stability, though not heavily involved.
- Facundo Medina, Angel Correa, Juan Foyth (N/A): Late-game subs to see out the win.
Manager
- Lionel Scaloni (6/10): Took a risk with his lineup, and it paid off. The second half was shaky, but a win away from home is always valuable.
