Sanabria’s bicycle kick seals Paraguay’s 2-1 win over Argentina

A spectacular bicycle kick by Antonio Sanabria and a second-half header from Omar Alderete secured Paraguay a well-deserved 2-1 victory over Lionel Messi’s Argentina in Thursday’s South American World Cup qualifiers.

Argentina struck first in the 11th minute when Lautaro Martinez smashed in Enzo Fernandez’s deep pass. Initially flagged for offside, the goal was awarded after a VAR review. Paraguay almost equalized moments later, but Gustavo Gomez’s header rattled the crossbar.

The breakthrough came when Gustavo Velazquez delivered a perfect cross for Sanabria, whose stunning overhead kick left Emiliano Martinez helpless. The goal shocked Argentina, and Messi, largely absent from the first half, managed only one off-target shot.

Alderete headed in Paraguay’s second after the break, punishing Argentina for another defensive lapse. Despite dominating possession, the visitors struggled to break down Paraguay’s solid defence.

“We controlled the game, but their goals came from our mistakes,” Lautaro Martinez admitted. Coach Lionel Scaloni praised Paraguay’s defensive effort, acknowledging Argentina’s errors on set pieces.

Argentina remains atop the standings with 22 points, while Paraguay, now sixth, boosts their hopes for automatic World Cup qualification.