Argentina continued their impressive run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a commanding 3-0 victory over Chile at the Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires. The reigning world champions showcased their depth and tactical prowess even without their talisman Lionel Messi, who was sidelined due to an ankle injury.
Match Summary
The match, played on September 5, 2024, saw Argentina extend their lead at the top of the CONMEBOL qualifying table. Goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Julián Álvarez, and Paulo Dybala secured the win for the home side, demonstrating the team’s ability to perform at the highest level even without their captain.
First Half: A Tactical Battle
The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams trying to establish control in midfield. Argentina, playing their trademark possession-based style, dominated the ball but struggled to create clear-cut chances against a well-organized Chilean defense.
Chile, under the guidance of coach Ricardo Gareca, adopted a counter-attacking approach, looking to exploit any spaces left by Argentina’s forward-thinking fullbacks. However, the visitors found it difficult to threaten Emiliano Martínez’s goal, with the Argentine defense, led by Cristian Romero, standing firm.
Second Half: Argentina’s Quality Shines Through
The deadlock was broken just three minutes into the second half when Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister found the net. A well-worked move down the right flank saw Julián Álvarez deliver a pinpoint cross, which Mac Allister met with a first-time finish, leaving Chilean goalkeeper Gabriel Arias with no chance.
This goal seemed to open up the game, with Chile forced to push forward in search of an equalizer. Argentina, however, looked increasingly dangerous on the counter-attack, with the pace and skill of Nicolás González and Álvarez causing problems for the Chilean backline.
Key Performances
Julián Álvarez
Manchester City striker Julián Álvarez was the standout performer of the night. Not only did he provide the assist for Mac Allister’s opener, but he also scored a stunning goal of his own in the 84th minute. Receiving the ball just outside the penalty area, Álvarez unleashed a powerful shot that flew into the top corner, effectively sealing the win for Argentina.
Enzo Fernández
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández controlled the tempo of the game from his deep-lying midfield position. His ability to dictate play and break up Chilean attacks was crucial in Argentina’s dominant performance.
Cristian Romero
Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero was a rock at the heart of Argentina’s defense. His anticipation and physicality nullified the threat of Chilean striker Eduardo Vargas, ensuring a clean sheet for the home side.
Tactical Analysis
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni set up his team in a fluid 4-3-3 formation, which often morphed into a 3-5-2 when in possession. This tactical flexibility allowed Argentina to dominate possession while also maintaining defensive solidity.
The fullbacks, particularly Nahuel Molina on the right, provided width and attacking impetus, allowing the forward players to operate in more central areas. This strategy proved effective in stretching the Chilean defense and creating spaces for Argentina’s creative players to exploit.
In midfield, the trio of Enzo Fernández, Rodrigo De Paul, and Mac Allister provided a perfect balance of creativity, work rate, and defensive cover. Their ability to control the tempo of the game was crucial in wearing down the Chilean resistance.
Chile’s Struggles
Chile, currently in a transitional phase, struggled to impose themselves on the game. The absence of experienced players like Alexis Sánchez and Arturo Vidal was evident, as the team lacked the cutting edge in the final third.
Coach Ricardo Gareca’s 4-4-2 formation was designed to provide defensive stability and quick counter-attacking opportunities. However, the quality of Argentina’s possession play meant that Chile spent long periods chasing the ball, limiting their attacking opportunities.
Impact on World Cup Qualifying
This victory further solidifies Argentina’s position at the top of the CONMEBOL qualifying table. With 18 points from seven games, they have opened up a five-point lead over their nearest challengers. The win also extends their unbeaten run in competitive matches, a streak that dates back to their triumph in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
For Chile, this defeat leaves them in a precarious position. Currently sitting in 8th place, they face an uphill battle to secure one of the six automatic qualification spots for the 2026 World Cup.
Looking Ahead
Argentina’s next qualifier sees them travel to Colombia, in what promises to be a stern test of their credentials. The team’s performance against Chile, however, will give coach Scaloni confidence that they can maintain their impressive form even without Lionel Messi.
Chile, on the other hand, host Bolivia in a must-win game if they are to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive. Coach Gareca will need to find solutions to his team’s attacking woes if they are to turn their campaign around.
Conclusion
Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Chile was a statement of intent from the world champions. Even without their talismanic captain Lionel Messi, they demonstrated the depth and quality that makes them favorites not only to qualify for the 2026 World Cup but also to defend their title.
The performance showcased the evolution of this Argentina side under Lionel Scaloni. No longer overly reliant on individual brilliance, they now function as a cohesive unit, capable of dominating games through tactical discipline and collective effort.
For Chile, this defeat highlights the challenges they face in rebuilding their national team. The golden generation that brought so much success in the mid-2010s has moved on, and finding suitable replacements is proving to be a difficult task.
As the road to the 2026 World Cup continues, Argentina have laid down a marker with this comprehensive victory. Their blend of experience and emerging talent suggests that they will be a force to be reckoned with for years to come.
The match also served as a fitting tribute to Ángel Di María, who recently announced his retirement from international football. While he wasn’t on the pitch, the performance of his teammates was a testament to the winning mentality he helped instill in this Argentina side.
In the broader context of South American football, Argentina’s dominance in this match and throughout the qualifying campaign so far underlines the shift in power dynamics within CONMEBOL. Traditional powerhouses like Brazil and Uruguay are facing increased competition, not just from Argentina, but also from emerging forces like Colombia and Ecuador.
As the qualifiers progress, it will be fascinating to see how other teams respond to Argentina’s challenge. Will we see tactical innovations designed to counter Argentina’s possession-based approach? Or will teams look to emulate aspects of Scaloni’s successful system?
For now, Argentina can bask in the glow of another impressive victory. But in the competitive world of international football, they know that maintaining this level of performance will be crucial as they aim to cement their status as the team to beat in world football.
