Argentina’s Lautaro Martinez, the leading scorer from the club’s Copa America title run, scored the opening goal in the 11th minute for the reigning world champions. But they were unable to find the back of the net again Thursday.

Argentina are back in action on Thursday with a trip to Asuncion to face a tough Paraguay test with a chance to inch closer to a FIFA 2026 World Cup berth. Lionel Messi and company saw off Bolivia last time out with a hat trick plus two assists in a thumping.

With Lionel Scaloni's squad at the top of the table and closing in on a ticket to the 2026 World Cup, Argentina is ready to keep the momentum alive and kick things up a notch as they defend their title.

Antonio Sanabria's spectacular bicycle kick, Omar Alderete's header give hosts narrow win against Lionel Messi-led Argentina - Anadolu Ajansı

Paraguay vs. Argentina in World Cup Qualifiers kicks off at 6:30 p.m. ET on Nov. 14. This fixture takes place at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco. Paraguay vs. Argentina in World Cup Qualifiers is available to live stream for free on SBS On Demand in Australia.

World champions Argentina suffered a 2-1 defeat to Paraguay while rivals Brazil were held to a 1-1 draw at Venezuela as South America's big guns struggled in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying on Thursday.

Argentina pays a visit to the Estadio Defensores del Chaco to square up against Paraguay in the first of the two CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier games it'll play to close out 2024's international action.

Lionel Messi’s Argentina are down 2-1 against Paraguay in the first half for Matchday 11 of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers at Defensores del Chaco stadium. Check out our live updates! Paraguay lead Argentina 2-1 for Matchday 11 of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers at Defensores del Chaco stadium.