Argentina unexpectedly fell 0-2 to Uruguay in the 5th match of the 2026 World Cup qualifying round in South America, despite a strong performance at home.

Messi failed, Argentina was empty-handed

Argentina has won 13 straight matches since losing 1-2 to Saudi Arabia in the 2022 World Cup Finals group stage. Argentina’s defense played well in the last eight matches before Uruguay, allowing nil goals. That efficiency helped Argentina win the 2022 World Cup and lead the South American 2026 World Cup qualifications after four wins.

Uruguay proved difficult to beаt. Uruguay overcame Brazil 2-0 in their previous match and are sure they can surprise Argentina.

Argentina had home field advantage and fielded the strongest team with Lionel Messi and excellent satellites Alvarez, Gonzalez, Fernandez, and MacAllister. While veteran Luis Suarez stays on the bench, Nenez plays striker for Uruguay.

Argentina led in the first half due to ball control. Uruguay emphasizes defense and plays hard when necessary. Argentina struggled to score due to captain Valverde and Uruguay’s close play. Messi failed to score with long shots or free kicks.

Uruguay scored unexpectedly in the 41st minute. Matias Vina set up Ronaldo Araujo to smoothly beаt Martinez and give the away team the lead.

Argentina pressed higher to аttаck in the second half, while Uruguay focused on defense. Messi is still blocked and must Һunt for openings from fixed circumstances, but fails.

In the 87th minute, Argentina received a “recovery” blоw after failing to equalize. Uruguay immediately counterattacked when Messi lost the ball, and Nunez accelerated before finishing to double the lead.

Argentina failed to equalize in the last minutes. Argentina has 12 points after 5 matches, 2 ahead of Uruguay, despite losing 0-2 in the final.