Argentina took an early lead through Lautaro Martinez's goal. But they could not hold on to that lead for long. Paraguay equalized with Antonio Sanabria's eye-catching bicycle kick. Then, Omar Alderet's goal secured the victory for the hosts.
Argentina lost 2-1 to Paraguay despite taking the lead early in the World Cup qualifier. This was their third defeat of the tournament.
Argentina did not have to wait long to find the net. In the 11th minute of the match, Lautaro beat a defender who was holding on to Enzo Fernandes' through pass and put the ball into the net with a cross shot. Initially, the linesman gave offside. Later, the referee blew the whistle for the goal with the help of VAR.
Argentina managed to hold on to the lead they had gained at the beginning for only 8 minutes. In the 19th minute, Gustavo Gomes' header hit the crossbar. Although luck was on the side of the Albiceleste, Sanabria did not give up. He found the net with a bicycle kick from Gustavo Velasquez's cross from a position near the byline. Emiliano Martínez could not save the ball that went near the post even though he jumped.
Argentina had a chance to take the lead in the 25th minute. Lionel Messi could not put his shot on target after receiving the ball from Molina's cross. The first half ended in a 1-1 draw.
Paraguay took the lead after the break. In the 47th minute, Alderete ran to Gomes' free kick and headed the ball into the net with a diving header.
After falling behind in the match, Argentina also fell behind in possession. Paraguay then pressed the pressure on Messi even more. Even then, Messi created a great chance in the 79th minute. His long-range shot hit one of the players and went wide of the post. They were unable to return to the match.
Despite the loss, Argentina remains at the top of the points table with 22 points from 11 matches. Colombia, who are in second place with 19 points from 10 matches, have a chance to catch up with them in terms of points.
Meanwhile, Brazil, who drew 1-1 with Venezuela, are third with 17 points.