Paraguay stun Argentina 2-1 in 2026 World Cup quals

By Can Erozden

Hosts Paraguay shocked Lionel Messi-led Argentina 2-1 in a Thursday 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Defending world champions Argentina took the lead after 11 minutes as Inter Milan star Lautaro Martinez scored in the box after a deep pass.

Martinez's opener was first ruled out for offside by the referee, but then Argentina were awarded the goal after a VAR review.

Eight minutes later Antonio Sanabria, a Paraguay forward, scored a spectacular bicycle kick to tie the game in Asuncion.

Paraguay's Omar Alderete scored a second-half header as the hosts came back from deficit in the South American World Cup qualifying stage match against the world champions.

Paraguay secured the 2-1 win to move up to the sixth position in standings with 16 points.

Argentina are still on top of the table with 22 points in 11 matches. Ten South American nations are competing to be in the 2026 World Cup finals.

The best six teams will automatically qualify for the upcoming World Cup that will be hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada.