Argentina and their talisman Lionel Messi could not break down Paraguay in their World Cup qualifier despite enjoying the majority of possession in Asuncion. The visitors played out Serie A duo Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez and Juventus forward Paulo Dybala in the attack. They struggled to create clear-cut chances before the game opened up in the second half.
Joaquin Correa missed the best of Argentina’s best chances while Paris Saint-Germain star Messi curled a free-kick just wide. Paraguay came closest to a goal when Carlos Gonzalez blazed over from close in with just two minutes remaining.
On the final whistle, fans invaded the pitch trying to take a selfie with the former Barcelona star player in the wake of the stalemate. Brazil is topping the group after beating Venezuela 3-1 thanks to Leeds United forward Raphinha effects.
They are topping the group as they have won all nine of their qualifiers, and Argentina fills the top two positions in South American qualifying at the midway point of their campaigns to make next year’s tournament in Qatar. The top four teams will go through to the finals automatically.