Fri Oct 11 01:08:05 UTC 2024: ## Argentina Holds Venezuela to Draw in World Cup Qualifier Despite Wet Conditions

**Maturin, Venezuela** – Argentina secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Venezuela in a rain-soaked FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier at the Estadio Monumental de Maturin on Friday. The match, delayed by over 30 minutes due to heavy rain, saw both teams battle it out in challenging conditions.

Argentina, led by captain Lionel Messi, took an early lead through a header by Nicolás Otamendi. However, Venezuela equalised in the second half through Solomon Rondon.

Despite the damp pitch and challenging weather, the match was a lively affair, with both teams displaying intensity and commitment. Messi, alongside Lautaro Martinez and Nicolás Otamendi, controlled the midfield for Argentina, while Rondon proved a constant threat for the Venezuelan attack.

Argentina remains at the top of the CONMEBOL qualifying table with 18 points, while Venezuela sits in sixth place with 10 points. The draw extends Argentina’s unbeaten run in the qualifiers to seven matches.

The match saw several key moments, including a brilliant save by Argentina goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli, and a crucial goalline block by Otamendi to deny Venezuela an equaliser.

The next FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier for both teams will be on Tuesday, October 15th. Argentina will host Ecuador, while Venezuela travels to face Colombia.

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