Argentina were beaten by Uruguay in their first match since the start of the post-Lionel Messi era and after manager Lionel Scaloni extended his contract until 2030.
Uruguay secured a 2-1 victory at Boca Juniors’ La Bombonera, with two fortunate goals from set pieces deciding a match that rarely reached the expected technical level. Argentina’s late revival, led by Prestianni, provided the main spark in an otherwise subdued contest.
According to Spanish newspaper AS, Uruguay repeated their 2023 success at Boca Juniors’ stadium. The match was played in front of a limited crowd, although Uruguay made the stronger start under Diego Forlan, who is moving closer to establishing himself as the national team’s manager.
Uruguay initially looked to control possession and dictate the tempo, but their influence faded as they struggled to produce creative ideas. Their attacking players were unable to advance into dangerous positions or take responsibility in the final third.
Argentina, meanwhile, needed relatively few opportunities to threaten. Julian Alvarez came close with a low effort that goalkeeper Fiermarin saved well, while Enzo Fernandez and Medina also tested him from outside the penalty area. Fiermarin remained composed and dealt confidently with the attempts.
In the absence of Messi, Argentina needed greater collective responsibility, although an individual moment of quality could still have settled an evenly balanced match. Paz, Almada and the rest of the Argentina attack failed to find a way through Uruguay’s organised defence.
Uruguay went into half-time without a shot on target, but still took the lead. Lisandro attempted to clear a set-piece delivery, but the ball struck Valverde in the face and deflected into the net.
Their second goal also came from a set piece, this time a corner. Araujo tried to redirect the ball with a header at the near post, but it caught him between the back of the head and neck, changing direction unexpectedly before finding the net beyond the reach of the home players.
Argentina improved after Prestianni was introduced, with the pace of their attacks increasing in Uruguay’s half. The winger immediately took responsibility and repeatedly created openings for his side.
His work produced a goal in the 72nd minute. Prestianni drove forward on the left before setting up Alvarez, who finished neatly with the inside of his foot to reduce the deficit and give Argentina hope of recovering.
That momentum did not last until the final whistle. Argentina’s attacking rhythm diminished in the closing stages, while Uruguay regained their intensity and pressed more effectively after introducing several substitutes in the second half.
Fiermarin was not seriously tested again, allowing Uruguay to hold on for an important win and claim a second victory over Argentina at La Bombonera.
