Argentina took a major step toward World Cup qualification with a 1-0 victory over Uruguay in Montevideo, despite missing key players like Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez, and Rodrigo De Paul. Thiago Almada’s stunning 68th-minute goal secured the win, putting Argentina just one point away from securing their spot in the 2026 tournament.

The defending champions now lead South American qualifying with 28 points after 13 matches. They could officially clinch a place in the World Cup with a draw against Brazil on Tuesday in Buenos Aires. Meanwhile, Uruguay remains in contention but struggled to create chances against Argentina’s disciplined defense.

Elsewhere, Ecuador climbed to second place with a 2-1 win over Venezuela, thanks to a brace from Enner Valencia. The victory puts Ecuador in a strong position to qualify, overcoming the three-point penalty they started with due to an eligibility issue in the last cycle.

With five matches left in qualifying, the top six teams will advance directly to the World Cup, while the seventh-placed team will enter an intercontinental playoff. Argentina’s next test comes against Brazil, who will be without Alisson, Gabriel Magalhães, and Bruno Guimarães due to suspensions.