Díaz’s Magic, Almada’s Heroics: Argentina vs. Colombia Ends in Thrilling 1-1 Draw!

Buenos Aires, June 11, 2025 – The Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires pulsed with energy last night as Argentina and Colombia battled to a gripping 1-1 draw in their FIFA World Cup 2026 CONMEBOL Qualifier. In a match that reignited their storied rivalry, Colombia’s Luis Díaz dazzled with a solo masterpiece, while Argentina’s Thiago Almada answered with a late equalizer that saved the world champions from defeat. The clash, marked by a red card, heated exchanges, and relentless passion, kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

A Rivalry Rekindled

This wasn’t just another qualifier. Argentina, already qualified for the 2026 World Cup and sitting atop the CONMEBOL standings with 35 points, faced a Colombia side desperate to secure their own spot. Colombia, clinging to sixth place with 22 points, needed a result to bolster their hopes of direct qualification. The backdrop of their recent encounters—most notably Argentina’s extra-time victory over Colombia in the 2024 Copa América final—added extra spice to an already combustible fixture.

Argentina fielded a strong lineup, with Lionel Messi returning to the starting XI after coming off the bench in their previous 1-0 win over Chile. Coach Lionel Scaloni opted for a 4-3-3 formation, featuring Emiliano Martínez in goal, a backline of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, and Facundo Medina, and a midfield trio of Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, and Leandro Paredes. Up top, Messi, Julián Álvarez, and Thiago Almada led the attack.

Colombia, under Argentine coach Néstor Lorenzo, countered with a 4-2-3-1, leaning on the speed and creativity of Luis Díaz, James Rodríguez, and Jaminton Campaz. Goalkeeper Kevin Mier anchored a defense comprising Daniel Muñoz, Jhon Lucumí, Davinson Sánchez, and Deiver Machado, with Jefferson Lerma and Kevin Castaño shielding the backline.

Díaz’s Moment of Brilliance

The match exploded into life in the 24th minute when Luis Díaz produced a goal that will be replayed for years. Collecting a precise through ball from James Rodríguez on the left flank, the Liverpool winger embarked on a breathtaking run. Díaz weaved past four Argentine defenders—Molina, Romero, Paredes, and Medina—with a blend of speed, skill, and audacity

Last Updated on: Tuesday, July 1, 2025 11:04 pm by Aagya Agarwal | Published by: Aagya Agarwal on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 6:46 pm | News Categories: Sports News

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Aagya Agarwal

Aagya Agarwal is a writer with a passion for telling stories that matter. She covers everything from current events and business to sports, tech, lifestyle, education, and entertainment. With an engineering degree from ICFAI Hyderabad, she brings a unique mix of analytical thinking and creativity to her work, breaking down complex topics into engaging, easy-to-understand content.

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