September 13, (THEWILL) – World champions Argentina rested the talismanic Lionel Messi but still proved too strong for 10-man Bolivia, easing to a 3-0 away victory in La Paz on Tuesday night, to maintain their perfect start to World Cup qualifying.
Messi was left out of the matchday squad by manager Lionel Scaloni after complaining of fatigue following his match-winning heroics against Ecuador last week. However, his absence mattered little as goals from Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Tagliafico and Nicolas Gonzalez secured a comfortable win.
Chelsea’s Fernandez opened the scoring on 31 minutes after good work from Julian Alvarez and assist by Angel di Maria before left-back Tagliafico doubled Argentina’s lead with a looping header eight minutes later. By that point, Bolivia were a man light after Roberto Fernandez saw red for a reckless challenge.
The second half was one-way traffic as Argentina remained in control, with Alvarez hitting the woodwork before Fernandez wrapped up the win seven minutes from time. The victory keeps Argentina top of the South American qualifying group.
Later on Tuesday, Ecuador host Uruguay, Venezuela face Paraguay, Chile take on Colombia and Brazil travel to Peru as CONMEBOL qualifying continues.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
