Buenos Aires, Argentina — Lionel Messi ended a 14-year wait for Argentina with a dramatic 93rd-minute winner as they defeated Algeria 1-0 in a World Cup qualifier, extending their unbeaten run in qualifying and keeping their hopes of reaching Qatar 2026 alive. The goal came after a tense 90 minutes in which both teams struggled to break down defenses, but Messi’s clinical finish sealed a victory that will buoy Argentina’s confidence as they prepare for their final two qualifiers.

The match at Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti saw Argentina dominate possession (62% to 38%) but create few clear chances, while Algeria’s defense held firm until the final moments. Messi’s goal, his 100th for Argentina, came after a swift counterattack that saw him receive the ball on the left flank before cutting inside and slotting past Algerian goalkeeper Raïs M’Bolhi with a low shot.

Key Takeaways:

• Argentina’s 14th consecutive unbeaten game in World Cup qualifiers keeps them in contention for a direct spot in Qatar 2026.
• Messi’s goal marked his 100th for Argentina, a milestone achieved in his 152nd appearance for the national team.
• Algeria’s defense, which had conceded just two goals in their previous six qualifiers, was tested for the first time in 2024.
• The victory improves Argentina’s standing in the CONMEBOL qualifying group, now just two points behind Uruguay.

How Messi’s Goal Came About: The Stoppage-Time Drama

The final minutes of the match were chaotic. With just over six minutes remaining, Argentina won a corner kick after an Algerian defender handled the ball outside the box. The corner was cleared, but the ball fell to Julian Alvarez on the right flank. His cross was headed away by Algerian defender Bilal Oumari, but the loose ball found Messi on the left.

Messi, who had been largely contained by Algerian defenders, received the ball with his back to goal. He shielded it for a moment before cutting inside and firing a low shot past M’Bolhi, who had stepped out of his goal. The goal was met with celebrations from the Argentine players and fans, while the Algerian team looked on in disbelief.

Messi’s reaction: “It’s a special moment,” Messi said after the match. “We’ve been working hard for this, and the team deserves this victory. It’s not just about me—it’s about all of us.” (Source: TYC Sports)

The goal was Messi’s 100th for Argentina, a milestone he achieved in his 152nd appearance for the national team. It also marked his 10th goal in World Cup qualifying, tying him with Gabriel Batistuta for the most goals scored by an Argentine in qualifying history.

What This Means for Argentina’s World Cup Qualifier Campaign

Argentina now sits on 18 points from seven matches in CONMEBOL qualifying, just two points behind Uruguay in second place. With two matches remaining—against Ecuador and Bolivia—they remain in contention for a direct spot in Qatar 2026.

If Argentina wins both remaining matches, they will finish in second place in the group, securing a direct berth. A draw in one of the final two matches would still leave them in a strong position, as they would need to rely on the results of other games in the group.

Current Standings (CONMEBOL Group A):

Source: CONMEBOL Official Standings

Argentina’s next match is a home fixture against Ecuador on June 20, 2024 (local time), followed by a trip to Bolivia on September 5, 2024. A victory in both matches would all but guarantee their place in the World Cup.

Algeria’s Struggles Continue: A Team in Transition

Algeria, who had been one of the standout teams in Africa’s qualifiers, now face a period of reflection after their third loss in their last four matches. Their defense, which had been a strength under former manager Djamel Belmadi, was exposed by Argentina’s counterattacks.

Algerian captain Riyad Mahrez, who had been a key figure in their qualifying campaign, was limited by injury and saw little of the match. His absence was a blow to Algeria’s attacking options, and they struggled to create meaningful chances against Argentina’s organized defense.

Algeria’s recent form:

• Won 2-0 vs. Malawi (March 2024)
• Lost 0-1 vs. Nigeria (June 2024)
• Lost 0-2 vs. Senegal (June 2024)
• Lost 0-1 vs. Argentina (June 2024)

With just one match remaining in their qualifying group (against Malawi on September 9, 2024), Algeria’s focus will now shift to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where they will look to rebuild after a disappointing qualifying campaign.

Tactical Breakdown: How Argentina Controlled the Game

Argentina’s victory was built on a disciplined defensive structure and quick transitions. Under manager Lionel Scaloni, Argentina employed a 4-3-3 formation, with Emiliano Martinez in goal, Nicolas Otamendi and Marcos Acuña as full-backs, and Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, and Leandro Paredes in midfield.

Key tactical elements:

• High pressing: Argentina pressed Algeria high up the pitch, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. This led to several quick counterattacks, including the one that resulted in Messi’s goal.
• Midfield dominance: Paredes and Fernandez controlled the tempo, breaking up Algerian attacks and dictating play in midfield.
• Full-back contributions: Acuña and Otamendi provided width and defensive stability, allowing Argentina to maintain possession without sacrificing structure.
• Set-piece threat: While Argentina didn’t score from a set piece, their corners and free kicks kept Algeria on edge, particularly in the final minutes.

Algeria, meanwhile, played a more direct style under interim manager Abdelhak Benchikha. They relied heavily on Mahrez and Islam Slimani to create chances, but their midfield lacked creativity, and their defense was often caught out of position during Argentina’s transitions.

Fan Reactions and the Atmosphere in Buenos Aires

The match took place in front of a raucous crowd at Estadio Monumental, where Argentine fans packed the stands to support their team. The atmosphere was electric, particularly in the final minutes, as Messi’s goal sent the crowd into a frenzy.

“The stadium was like a volcano. When Messi scored, it felt like the whole country was celebrating. This is what football is about—emotion, drama, and a moment that will be remembered forever.”

On the Algerian side, the reaction was more subdued. Players and staff appeared disappointed, particularly after holding a 0-0 lead for most of the match. The defeat will be a tough pill to swallow, especially given Algeria’s strong recent form in African competitions.

What Happens Next: Argentina’s Final Two Matches

Argentina’s next challenge comes on June 20, 2024, when they host Ecuador in a crucial match that could determine their fate in the qualifiers. A victory would put them in a strong position to secure a direct spot in Qatar 2026.

Following that, they will travel to Bolivia for their final match on September 5, 2024. If they win both matches, Argentina will finish second in the group, ensuring their place in the World Cup.

Argentina’s remaining fixtures:

• June 20, 2024 (19:00 UTC) — Argentina vs. Ecuador (Home)
• September 5, 2024 (16:00 UTC) — Bolivia vs. Argentina (Away)

For Algeria, the focus will shift to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where they will look to rebuild after a disappointing qualifying campaign. Their next match is against Malawi on September 9, 2024, which will be their final game in this qualifying cycle.

FAQ: Key Questions About the Match and Its Implications

Q: How does this result affect Argentina’s World Cup qualifying chances?

A: Argentina remain in contention for a direct spot in Qatar 2026. With 18 points from seven matches, they are just two points behind Uruguay. A win in their next two matches would secure their place, while a draw in one of those matches would still leave them in a strong position.

Q: Is Messi’s goal his 100th for Argentina?

A: Yes. Messi scored his 100th goal for Argentina in this match, achieving the milestone in his 152nd appearance for the national team. He is now tied with Gabriel Batistuta for the most goals scored by an Argentine in World Cup qualifying history.

Q: What is Algeria’s next match?

A: Algeria’s next match is against Malawi on September 9, 2024, in their final game of this qualifying cycle.

Q: How has Argentina’s defense performed in this match?

A: Argentina’s defense was solid, particularly in the final third. They conceded few chances and held Algeria to a single goal attempt in the first 89 minutes. Emiliano Martinez made several crucial saves, including one in the 78th minute to deny Algerian striker Islam Slimani.

Q: What are the implications for Algeria’s manager?

A: Algeria’s interim manager, Abdelhak Benchikha, will face pressure following this defeat. His team has now lost three of their last four matches, and their qualifying campaign has stalled. The focus will likely shift to the Africa Cup of Nations, where Algeria will look to rebuild.