Venezuela vs Argentina | Argentina Draws 1-1 Against Venezuela in World Cup 2026 Qualifier

In a rain-soaked World Cup 2026 qualifying match, Lionel Messi played the full 90 minutes as Argentina settled for a 1-1 draw against Venezuela on Thursday. The game, held in Venezuela, was played under challenging weather conditions, with the pitch heavily waterlogged due to torrential rainfall.

Argentina took an early lead in the 13th minute with Nicolás Otamendi scoring a goal, putting the reigning World Cup champions ahead. However, Venezuela’s Salomón Rondón leveled the match with a header in the 65th minute, securing a hard-fought draw for the hosts.

The match was largely defined by the drenched pitch, as large pools of water on the surface made it difficult for players to control the ball. The condition of the field was so poor that officials from both teams met to discuss whether the game should continue. Despite efforts from stadium workers, including a 30-minute weather delay and attempts to clear the water, the game proceeded under difficult conditions.

Lionel Messi, who returned to the national team for the first time since recovering from a right ankle injury sustained in the Copa America final on July 14, missed two shots during the game. Both teams struggled to adapt to the wet surface, which impacted their touches and passing accuracy.

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Invictos en

1-1 #SiempreVinotinto pic.twitter.com/WrW5ehb0tG

— La Vinotinto (@SeleVinotinto) October 10, 2024

Despite the draw, Argentina remains at the top of the Conmebol World Cup qualifying standings with 19 points. This match marks Argentina’s first draw since March 2022 when they tied Ecuador 1-1 in the previous World Cup qualifiers. Argentina, the reigning World Cup and two-time Copa America champions, has an impressive record, losing just four times in their last 67 matches.

Next, Messi and Argentina will face Bolivia at Estadio Mâs Monumental in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.