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Key Points

Lionel Messi potentially played his final match in Argentina while equaling Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup qualifying goals record with a brilliant brace. Uruguay secured their fifth straight World Cup appearance with a commanding 3-0 victory over Peru. Colombia marked their return to the World Cup stage after missing Qatar 2022 with an impressive win against Bolivia. Paraguay ended their 16-year World Cup drought by securing qualification through a hard-fought draw with Ecuador.

Key Points: Messi Matches Ronaldo Record in Potential Argentina Farewell

  • Messi scores brace to match Ronaldo's 36 World Cup qualifying goals record
  • Uruguay qualifies for fifth consecutive World Cup with 3-0 win over Peru
  • Colombia returns to World Cup after missing Qatar 2022 with Bolivia victory
  • Paraguay ends 16-year World Cup absence by holding Ecuador to draw
2 min read

Messi levels Ronaldo's record in potential Argentina farewell; Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay qualify for WC 2026

Messi equals Ronaldo's World Cup qualifying goals record in emotional farewell as Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay secure 2026 World Cup spots in CONMEBOL qualifiers.

"It was a carnival in the stands with fireworks covering the sky, bidding farewell to their homegrown maestro - Match Report"

Buenos Aires, September 5

Lionel Messi, in his potential farewell appearance in Argentina, levelled his long-time arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo's record with a brace. Meanwhile, Uruguay, Colombia and Paraguay confirmed their qualification for next year's FIFA World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay qualified for one of the most significant sporting events by dashing Venezuela and Bolivia's automatic qualification. They would need to fight their way for the region's ticket to the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.

If Messi did indeed make his last appearance for Albiceleste in Argentina, the home fans ensured that he bowed out in the manner he deserves. 'The Atomic Flea' finished up two moves, one with a dink and the second with precision to send the crowd at the Monumental into a frenzy. It was a carnival in the stands with fireworks covering the sky, bidding farewell to their homegrown maestro after Argentina's 3-0 win.

With a sizzling brace, Messi levelled Ronaldo's record for most goals in the World Cup qualifying, with both netting 36 each. Messi now trails Carlos Ruiz, who sits at the top with a tally of 39.

Colombia clobbered three past Bolivia, courtesy of goals from James Rodriguez (31), Jhon Duran (74), and Juan Quintero (83), to stand triumphant with a 3-0 win after the 90 minutes. After missing the 2022 Qatar World Cup, Colombia found solace in their newfound success.

Uruguay breezed past Peru to guarantee a spot for the fifth successive World Cup, with Rodrigo Aguirre and Giorgian de Arrascaeta being the standout performers. While Rodrigo (14) and Giorgian (58) rattled Peru's defence, Federico Vinas (80) hammered the final nail in the coffin to seal a 3-0 triumph for Uruguay.

Marcelo Bielsa, who has had previous stints with Argentina at Korea/Japan 2002 and Chile at South Africa 2010, will look to make the third time a charm with Uruguay in the football extravaganza. Meanwhile, Paraguay ended its 16-year-long wait to feature in the World Cup by holding Ecuador to a goalless draw.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
So happy for Colombia! After missing Qatar, they're back where they belong. James Rodriguez still has that magic touch. South American qualifiers are always so intense and exciting to watch! âš½
A
Arjun K
The GOAT debate continues! Both Messi and Ronaldo at 36 goals each in WC qualifiers. What an era of football we've witnessed. These two legends have redefined the sport forever. 🙏
S
Sarah B
Uruguay under Bielsa looks really promising. Their 3-0 win was clinical. Looking forward to seeing them in the World Cup next year! South American football quality is just different level.
V
Vikram M
Paraguay ending 16-year wait is huge! Must be amazing for their fans. Meanwhile, feel bad for Venezuela and Bolivia - CONMEBOL qualifiers are the toughest in the world. Every match feels like a final.
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Michael C
While Messi's achievement is incredible, I wish the article gave more coverage to the qualifying teams. All these nations have amazing stories and struggles to reach the World Cup. Each qualification is special in its own way.

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