Argentina were facing the possibility of failing to qualify for a World Cup for the first time since 1970.However a Messi penalty gave them a laboured and much needed win.Argentina are in a bit of a mess at the moment – both football wise and otherwise.The country faces an economic crisis – with inflation at 30% and rising unemployment. The economic uncertainty had led to a players’ strike that delayed the restart of the domestic football season by more than a month.
However,where there’s life there’s hope.They are now in third place in the 10-nation South American group on 22 points, eight behind leaders Brazil and one point behind second-placed Uruguay.
If they win the three remaining home games against Venezuela,Paraguay and Peru they will be home and dry.
But that remains to be seen
Highlights..