With 10 men, Argentina managed to secure a draw against Colombia

Argentina National Team, with its ticket already secured for the next World Cup, tied 1-1 against Colombia in the closing match of this window of the Qualifiers corresponding to matchday 16.

As usual, the team led by Lionel Scaloni  tried to impose its conditions from the start, pressing high and dominating the game. Although Dibu Martínez had to intervene on one occasion, the clearest chances were for Messi, who couldn't finish with precision, and Julián Álvarez with a shot from mid-range.

Nevertheless, the breakthrough came in the 23rd minute, when Luis Díazcaught the entire defense off guard and scored a true stunner that put Colombia ahead.

Despite the setback, Argentina maintained its offensive approach and created several chances that came close to becoming the equalizer. However, the visitors also took advantage of some spaces to threaten on counterattacks that exposed certain defensive lapses from the home side.

With the introduction of Giuliano Simeone and Nico González, Argentina gained depth at the start of the second half. The equalizer was close first with a clear shot from Enzo Fernández after an assist from Messi, and then with a strike from González that hit the post.

Later, in the 70th minute,  the home team suffered a major setback with Enzo's sending off, as he dangerously raised his leg and scraped Kevin Castaño's forehead.

Despite being outnumbered, Messi managed to create two clear chances with his trademark talent, before being replaced by Scaloni, who adjusted the formation with the introductions of Foyth and Exequiel Palacios.

Soon after, a Román elbow to Cuti Romero was only punished with a yellow card and, immediately, Thiago Almada (who was about to be substituted after Messi's exit) scored in the 80th minute, which lifted the spirits throughout the Monumental stadium.

Beyond a dangerous cross from Colombia that made the fans suffer,  Argentina managed to hold on to the draw against a demanding opponent, the only one it couldn't defeat in the Qualifiers.