Argentina Clinches 2026 World Cup Spot After Julián Álvarez’s Decisive Goal Sinks Chile

Argentina has once again stamped its authority in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. In a dramatic match in Buenos Aires, La Albiceleste secured their ticket to the finals after edging out Chile 1-0 on Friday morning (June 6, 2025). The only goal of the game came from rising star Julián Álvarez in the 16th minute. Latching onto a through ball from Thiago Almada, Álvarez calmly chipped the ball over Chilean keeper Brayan Cortes, sending the stadium into a frenzy.

Interestingly, Lionel Messi started the match on the bench and only entered in the second half, but his absence did not diminish Argentina’s attacking prowess. Emiliano Martínez was rock-solid in goal, denying golden chances from Alexis Sanchez and Lucas Cepeda. This victory places Argentina firmly at the top of the CONMEBOL standings with 34 points, making them the first South American nation to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, the defeat leaves Chile’s qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Julián Álvarez emerged as Argentina’s new hero, proving that Lionel Scaloni’s squad remains a formidable force even without Messi from the start. The entire nation erupted in celebration, marking Argentina’s determined step to defend their world champion title in North America next year.