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Messi-less World champions lose qualifier in Colombia
James Rodriguez has scored from the penalty spot to seal Colombia’s 2-1 win over defending champions Argentina in a South American World Cup qualifier.
Injured Argentina star Lionel Messi didn’t play in Barranquilla on Tuesday, in what was the first match between the teams since the Copa America final.
Yerson Mosquera opened the scoring in the 25th minute but Argentina equalised in the 48th when Nico Gonzalez capitalised on a defensive blunder from the Colombians. James’ 60th-minute spot kick secured the win at the Metropolitano Stadium.
World Cup winners Argentina lifted the Copa America trophy after a 1-0 extra-time victory over Colombia in July.
Colombia, who hadn’t beaten Argentina since 2019, are still unbeaten in South American World Cup qualifying.
Argentina lead the round-robin competition with 18 points after eight matches, two point clear of Colombia.
Four other matches were taking place on Tuesday: Chile v Bolivia, Ecuador v Peru, Venezuela v Ecuador and Paraguay v Brazil.
The top six teams in South American qualifying will get automatic spots at the 2026 World Cup.
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