BUENOS AIRES, Argentina - Argentina's remarkable unbeaten run of 35 matches, stretching back to their triumphant World Cup campaign last year, came to an abrupt end as they fell 2-0 to Uruguay in a CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying match on Thursday.
The match at the iconic La Bombonera Stadium in Buenos Aires was played in front of a passionate home crowd, but it was Uruguay who took control of the proceedings from the outset. Their attacking duo of Darwin Núñez and Rodrigo Bentancur posed a constant threat to Argentina's defense, and their efforts were rewarded with two goals in the first half.
Núñez opened the scoring in the 34th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error to slot the ball past Emiliano Martínez. Bentancur doubled Uruguay's lead just three minutes later, finishing off a swift counter-attack with a clinical strike.
Despite Argentina's best efforts to find a way back into the game, they were unable to break down Uruguay's solid defense. Lionel Messi, who had been instrumental in Argentina's World Cup victory, was unable to produce any magic on this occasion, as he was closely marked by Uruguay's midfield.
The defeat marks Argentina's first loss since their World Cup group-stage opener against Saudi Arabia last year. It also brings an end to their impressive unbeaten streak, which had seen them rise to the top of the FIFA rankings.
For Uruguay, the victory is a significant boost as they look to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup. The win also extends their unbeaten run against Argentina to five matches.
The loss will undoubtedly serve as a wake-up call for Argentina, who will need to regroup quickly if they are to maintain their position as one of the favorites for the next World Cup.
