Argentina Suffer Shock Defeat to Paraguay in World Cup Qualifiers

KASUYA, PARAGUAY - In a stunning turn of events, Argentine national team suffered their third consecutive defeat in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers at the hands of paraguay at Estadio Defensores del Chaco yesterday. A goals from Lautaro Martinez and defender Alderete sealed a 2-1 victory for Paraguay.

The match kicked off on an optimistic note with Martinez scoring a goal just minutes into the game, giving Argentina an early lead. However, Paraguayan forward Antonio Sanabria levelled affairs before half-time, and Alderete gave his country the winning edge in the second-half.

Meanwhile, Argentine legend Lionel Messi was at the centre of controversy during the match as he received repeated tough tackles from defender Alderete that saw him getting frustrated and eventually calling out the referee a "coward".

In an Instagram post, Paraguayan defender Alderete publicly apologised to Messi, saying, “Dear Leo Messi, I wantto apologize on behalf of my country for the unfortunate incident in which someone threw a bottle at you. You are an idol for millions here and around the world (especially for Fede). We deeply regret this disrespectful act that does not represent the affection and admiration we feel for you”.

The apology has been well-received by fans, who praised Alderete’s effort to restore goodwill amidst tense rivalry between Argentina fans and Paraguayan supporters.

For Argentina, the loss and these shocking events come as the team prepare for their next match against Peru on November 19. With three consecutive defeats so far in the qualifiers, captain Lionel Messi and his teammates will need to reassess their strategy if they want to turn things around before the World Cup final squad selections take place.

As Argentina gets back to action, questions continue to be asked about the mental toughness of the iconic football star with fans from both Argentina and Paraguay eagerly awaiting for the next match.