Since its World Cup title, Lionel Messi, Argentina couldn’t extend its unbeaten streak. In a World Cup qualifying match on Thursday, Uruguay defeated Argentina 2-0 at La Bombonera Stadium in Buenos Aires. The defeat marked the first loss for Argentina in a competitive match since the 2022 World Cup group-stage opener against Saudi Arabia. Uruguay secured its biggest victory under new coach Marcelo Bielsa with this win.

This result brought an end to Argentina’s home unbeaten streak, which dates back to 2016 when they suffered a 1-0 loss to Paraguay during World Cup qualifying. Brazil, on the other hand, continued its poor campaign in qualifying. They faced a 2-1 defeat at Colombia, marking their second consecutive defeat in the round-robin competition.

Argentina still leads the 10-team South American qualifying group with 12 points from five matches. Uruguay is only two points behind in second place with 10 points. Colombia has nine, Venezuela eight, and Brazil has seven points in fifth position. The 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada will have 48 teams and the top six teams from South America will get direct entry.

Uruguay’s aggressive play led to the opening goal against Argentina, scored by Ronald Araújo. Despite efforts from Lionel Messi, the Argentine team struggled to find the net. In the second half, Uruguay maintained pressure as Argentina’s attempts to level the score were thwarted.

In the Colombia vs. Brazil match, Colombian striker Luis Diaz led his team to a 2-1 victory with two solid headers. This win was Colombia’s first victory over Brazil in World Cup qualifying in 15 matches. Brazil, missing key players due to injuries, could not sustain its early lead and succumbed to a determined Colombian side.

In other matches, Bolivia won its first match of this round-robin, beating Peru 2-0, while Venezuela and Ecuador played to a 0-0 draw, as did Chile and Paraguay.