Argentina vs Colombia FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers – Match Report | Buenos Aires | June 11, 2025
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1. Argentina Held to 1-1 Draw Against Resilient Colombia in Buenos Aires
Argentina and Colombia shared the spoils in a dramatic 1-1 draw at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. Despite going a man down in the second half, the reigning world champions found their savior in Thiago Almada, who netted a late equalizer to preserve Argentina’s unbeaten streak in the qualifiers.
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2. Colombia Strikes First Through Diaz as Argentina Struggles to Respond
The visitors stunned the home crowd in the 24th minute when Luis Díaz found the back of the net. Colombia capitalized on Argentina’s defensive lapse and took control of the match early. The goal came after Argentina had a goal disallowed at the half-hour mark, increasing the frustration among the Argentine players and fans.
3. VAR Drama: Argentina Denied an Early Equalizer
In the 30th minute, Argentina thought they had drawn level, but the celebrations were short-lived. After a VAR check, the goal was ruled out, leaving the home crowd disappointed. The disallowed goal added to the tension of the match, which became increasingly physical as both sides battled for dominance.
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4. Halftime Scoreline: Colombia in Front, Argentina Left Chasing
At halftime, Colombia held a deserved 1-0 lead, with the Argentine midfield struggling to break through the compact Colombian defense. Despite enjoying more possession, Argentina lacked the creative spark in the final third and was often caught out on the counterattack.
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5. Red Card Turns the Game on Its Head in Second Half
The match took another turn in the 71st minute when Argentina was reduced to 10 men. A reckless challenge led to a straight red card, and the hosts were now not only trailing but also down a player. Colombia sensed an opportunity to double their lead, but Argentina’s defense stayed firm.
6. Thiago Almada: The Unexpected Hero
Just when it seemed like Argentina would suffer a rare home defeat, Thiago Almada stepped up with a moment of brilliance. In the 81st minute, a quick throw-in caught the Colombian defense off guard. Almada made a sharp run from the right, cut inside, and unleashed a low drive into the bottom-left corner to level the score at 1-1.
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7. Colombia Comes Close to Late Winner
Despite the setback, Colombia continued to press for a winner. In the 86th minute, Luis Diaz again proved threatening as he delivered a perfect cross to Rios, whose header struck the post. It was a heart-in-mouth moment for Argentina, but the hosts survived the scare.
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8. Final Minutes: Tension, Tempers, and Tight Defending
The final minutes were full of drama as Argentina, backed by a roaring crowd, went all out for a late winner. Emotions ran high, with veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi getting involved in a heated exchange with Colombia’s Rios in stoppage time. However, neither side could find the winner despite seven minutes of added time.
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9. Almada’s Goal Maintains Argentina’s Unbeaten Streak
The match ended 1-1, marking Argentina’s fifth consecutive match without defeat in the qualifiers. While the result wasn’t ideal, especially at home, Lionel Scaloni’s side showed resilience and mental strength, particularly after going a man down. Almada’s goal ensured that Argentina stayed firmly in the top four of the South American qualifying table.
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10. Messi’s Next Challenge: Leading Inter Miami at Club World Cup
With the international break concluded, Lionel Messi will now return to club duties, where he is set to lead Inter Miami in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. The Argentine legend continues to juggle responsibilities at both international and club levels, and all eyes will now turn to his performances on the global stage with his MLS side.
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11. Colombia Earns Respect with Tactical and Physical Display
Colombia, on the other hand, walked away with a valuable point and plenty of praise. Their physical approach, tight marking, and organized gameplay troubled the hosts. Luis Diaz was undoubtedly their standout performer, creating multiple chances and scoring the opening goal.
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12. Key Stats from the Match
•Final Score: Argentina 1-1 Colombia
•Goals: Luis Diaz (24’) – COL, Thiago Almada (81’) – ARG
•Red Card: Argentina (71’)
•Possession: Argentina – 58%, Colombia – 42%
•Shots on Target: Argentina – 3, Colombia – 4
•Pass Accuracy: Argentina – 87%, Colombia – 82%
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13. What’s Next in the Qualifiers?
Argentina will look to regroup before their next qualifying fixtures as the road to FIFA World Cup 2026 continues. With a few injury concerns and a red card to address, Lionel Scaloni may have selection dilemmas ahead. Colombia, meanwhile, will hope to build on this impressive away performance and push for a top-four finish in the table.
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Conclusion: A Fierce Contest Ends All Square
Argentina vs Colombia delivered high-octane drama, moments of brilliance, and late excitement. While the home fans expected a win, Thiago Almada’s late goal ensured Argentina escaped defeat and kept their qualifying campaign on solid ground. With Messi preparing for the Club World Cup, attention now shifts to whether he can inspire Inter Miami to global glory just as he’s done for La Albiceleste.
