Xtra Time Web Desk: Lionel Messi led Argentina failed to capitalize the two goal lead as they were held 2-2 by Colombia in the FIFA World Cup 2022 South American Qualifiers at the Metropolitano Roberto Melendez. The Albiceleste took an early lead through Cristian Romero who headed past David Ospina in the 3rd minute of the match. Leandro Paredes brilliance extended the lead for the Argentines in the 9th minute as he dribbled through the middle of Colombia’s defense before gently sliding the shot into the back of the net.
But Colombia lifted in the second half, as Argentina was either failing at the finishing or being stopped by Ospina. Argentina’s Nicolás Otamendi conceded a penalty and Luis Muriel Fruto scored from the spot in the 51st minute. But just when it appeared Argentina would take another step closer to the World Cup with an away win, Borja’s header in the injury time (90+4”) triggered wild celebrations for the hosts as the match was attended by 10,000 spectators despite alarming COVID-19 figures.
The top four teams in South American qualifiers will advance automatically to Qatar 2022. The fifth-place team will go into an inter-continental playoff. The current standings show Brazil leading the 10-team competition with 15 points, followed by Argentina (12), Ecuador (9) Uruguay and Colombia (8).
The next matches in South American World Cup qualifiers will be played in September and October.