Santiago, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- The 2022 Qatar World Cup qualifier South American division match played another match on the 27th, and Chile, sitting at home, lost 1:2 to the visiting Argentina team in the northern city of Karama.
Argentina's famous star Lionel Messi did not appear in the squad for this match. Also absent was Chilean star Vidal, who was suspended for receiving a red card in the previous match.
In the eighth minute, Argentina broke the deadlock with a goal from captain Di Maria, and the "Angels" cut inside after receiving the ball on the right and shooting with his left foot into the far corner of the goal. Chile were quick to return in colour, with 19th minute striker Brilton receiving a cross from a teammate on the left side of the penalty area and his header hanging to equalise. The visiting team again overtook the score in the 33rd minute, and Argentina played a beautiful counter-attack, and the powerful volley from outside the box was saved by Chilean international Bravo, but the ball landed right at the feet of the unguarded Lau Martinez, who easily pushed the ball into the empty goal.
Chile attacked with full force from the second half, while Argentina used defensive counter-attacks to constantly look for opportunities to extend their lead. But neither side was able to rewrite the score.
Argentina, which has received world cup tickets, continues to be unbeaten in qualifiers and narrows the point gap with top-ranked Brazil to four points. Chile, who have lost two consecutive games, have only 16 points in 15 games and are currently in seventh place, with little hope of entering Qatar.
Source: Xinhua Net