Argentina moved one step closer to securing their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a gritty 1-0 triumph over Uruguay on Friday in Montevideo. The reigning world champions, without Lionel Messi due to injury, found inspiration in the form of 23-year-old Thiago Almada, whose sensational strike proved decisive.

The match, held at the iconic Estadio Centenario, was an intense battle from start to finish. Uruguay, buoyed by their earlier 2-0 victory over Argentina during qualifying, appeared poised to frustrate the Albiceleste once again. However, Almada broke the deadlock in the 68th minute with a moment of sheer brilliance.

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Picking up the ball on the edge of the area, the attacking midfielder unleashed a thunderous shot that rocketed into the top corner, leaving Uruguay goalkeeper Sergio Rochet with no chance. While Almada’s goal lit up the evening, Argentina’s night was not without blemish.

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Deep into stoppage time, Nicolas Gonzalez was shown a red card for a reckless high boot on Uruguay’s Nahitan Nandez. Despite this late setback, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his team’s resilience in Messi’s absence, calling the performance “a complete match.” Scaloni also lauded Almada, emphasizing his value as a young talent ready to lead Argentina in the future.

The victory solidifies Argentina’s dominant position at the top of the South American qualifying standings, moving them closer to automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Almada’s heroics not only showcased his potential as a key player but also reassured fans of the team’s depth and ability to thrive without their talisman, Messi.

Argentina will look to seal their qualification when they face Brazil in their next match, a highly anticipated clash that could cement their status as regional powerhouses. For now, Almada’s stunning strike serves as a shining reminder of the next generation of Argentine talent ready to carry torch the global stage.