Lima: Nicolas Gonzalez and Lautaro Martinez scored a goal each as Argentina defeated Peru in the World Cup qualifiers on Wednesday (November 18). The visitors extended their unbeaten run under Lionel Scaloni to 11 games now.
The Albicesleste men dominated the entire game, as the host stood no chance. Though they were all over the field even in the second half, both the goals were scored in the first half of the match.
Gonzalez scored the first goal on 17 minutes from Giovani Lo Ceslo’s ball from the left flank which was put on the back of the net by an angled shot. The second goal came just 11 minutes later Lautaro Martinez converted a tap in from a through pass by Leandro Paredes.
Lionel Messi, yet again played a full 90 minutes for his country, and could have got his name on the scoresheet, but was denied twice by Pedro Gallese in the second half. During the second half, Messi almost dribbled past every Peruvian defender in a much ‘Messi like way’ and came one on one with Gallese, but the shot got deflected and went in for a corner.
They were unfortunate enough not to score any goals in the second half as it saw Argentina put a good defensive play with Peru failing to get past them. With this win, they stand second to the group toppers Brazil with two points. Brasil have won all their matches whereas Argentina drew against Paraguay.
