Wed Nov 20 02:14:47 UTC 2024: ## Upsets in World Cup Qualifiers: Argentina Falls to Paraguay, Brazil Held by Venezuela
**Asunción, Paraguay** – In a stunning upset, reigning World Cup champions Argentina suffered a 2-1 defeat to Paraguay in their latest World Cup qualifier. Antonio Sanabria (19′) and Omar Alderete (47′) scored for Paraguay, while Lautaro Martínez (11′) netted for Argentina. This is Argentina’s third loss in the qualifying round, despite fielding star player Lionel Messi. The defeat marks Paraguay’s first ever victory over Argentina in a World Cup qualifier and follows their recent win against Brazil.
Meanwhile, in another surprising result, Brazil was held to a 1-1 draw by Venezuela. Raphinha (43′) gave Brazil the lead before Telasco Segovia (46′) equalized for Venezuela. Brazil missed a penalty in the second half.
Despite the losses, Argentina still leads the South American qualifying table with 22 points from 11 matches. Colombia sits second with 19 points, followed by Brazil with 17. Uruguay and Ecuador are tied for fourth with 16 points each, while Paraguay is in sixth place and Venezuela in seventh with 12 points.
First Piper 