November 17, (THEWILL) – After Argentina qualified for the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup from their single point earned in their draw against already-qualified CONMEBOL leaders, Brazil, head coach Lionel Scaloni declared 2021 a “magnificent year” for the Albiceleste.
Argentina qualified despite that goalless draw at home against arch-rivals Brazil because other South American competition like Colombia, Uruguay, and Chile all failed to win in CONMEBOL on Tuesday.
Argentina, two-time world champions, completed a successful 2021 by dethroning Brazil in the Copa America final in July, ending a 28-year drought for silverware.
“This was a magnificent year,” Scaloni, who matched Alejandro Sabella for the country’s second longest undefeated run in CONMEBOL qualifying amid a 13-game streak, said. “Winning the Copa, qualifying for the World Cup unbeaten. It was a dream.”
“We got four points against two very difficult rivals. We all like to win of course but these games help a team to mature. Without a doubt, the balance is positive. Having qualified so far in advance, in a really difficult qualifying section, is something we should be proud of.”
The stalemate with Brazil in San Juan helped to extend their unbeaten streak to 27 games in all competitions and although Lionel Messi returned to the lineup, the talisman was unable to inspire his team to victory. Argentina had to wait less than an hour after 10-man Chile’s 2-0 loss to Ecuador at home to celebrate their World Cup fate.
Argentina is second in the CONMEBOL rankings with five matches remaining, six points behind champions Brazil and six ahead of third-placed Ecuador.
Argentina and Brazil were both eliminated in the last-16 stage of the 2018 World Cup in Russia, and both have played fewer games since the qualifier in Sao Paulo in September, which was sensationally abandoned after Scaloni’s men left the field as Brazilian health officials attempted to detain visiting players due to coronavirus regulations, as THEWILL reported.
After a quiet performance, superstar captain Lionel Messi – who had missed PSG’s previous two matches due to the international break – put his fitness fears to rest.
“I’m fine otherwise I wouldn’t have played,” Messi said before learning Argentina had qualified after the South American powerhouse made it six games without conceding – their longest streak in qualifying.
“I’ve been standing for a long time and it’s not easy to play a game with as much pace as this one.
“Luckily I’m fine and I know that little by little I’m going to pick up the pace. I hope I can finish the year well.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
