October 6 – The unthinkable – no Lionel Messi or Argentina at the World Cup – is seriously close to become a reality.
Twice champions and 2014 runners-up Argentina are suddenly in grave danger of failing to reach Russia next year after being held to a 0-0 draw by Peru on Thursday. Now they have to win their final qualifier in Ecuador to claim at least fifth spot which sets up a two-leg play-off against New Zealand.
Messi’s side are currently level on both points and goal difference with fifth-placed Peru, who are ahead on goals scored. In the 10-team South American group, only the top four teams qualify automatically, with the fifth-placed side going into a playoff against the Oceania champions.
Argentina visit Ecuador at high altitude in Quito in the final round of matches on Tuesday while Peru, who are hoping to reach the finals for the first time in 36 years, host Colombia in Lima.
Brazil have already qualified for Russia while Uruguay need just a draw from their final game against Bolivia to advance. Chile are third with Colombia fourth.
Argentina coach Jorge Sampaoli conceded “the situation is not comfortable” but added he was “confident that if we play with the conviction with which we did against Peru we will be in the World Cup”.
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