Lionel Messi helps Argentina maintain perfect start to 2026 World Cup qualifying

Lionel Messi came off the bench and twice struck the woodwork against Paraguay as an earlier goal set Argentina on their way to a third consecutive win in South American World Cup qualifying.

A third-minute goal from Nicolas Otamendi was just enough for Lionel Scaloni's team.

Darwin Nunez struck a stoppage time penalty as Uruguay fought back for a 2-2 draw with Colombia in Barranquilla while a stunning 85th-minute equaliser from Eduard Bello earned Venezuela a rare draw in Brazil.

Ecuador got their first points of these 2026 World Cup qualifiers with a last gasp 2-1 win against Bolivia.

Messi's fight for full fitness inevitably dominated the build-up to Argentina's attempt to maintain their 100 per cent record and the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner started on the bench with Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez leading the attack.

But it was veteran defender Otamandi who provided the moment of attacking inspiration, meeting a Rodrigo De Paul corner with a brilliant volley at the back post.

Atletico Madrid midfielder De Paul went close to doubling the lead three minutes before the break when he struck the post and moments later Nicolas Gonzalez fired just wide.

Messi replaced Alvarez in the 53rd minute as Scaloni looked to break down a disciplined and well organised Paraguay side but the woodwork foiled their talisman.

An inswinging corner from the right almost snuck in, but struck the post and then, after winning a free kick on the edge of the box, Messi curled his shot against the same post.

Venezuela's Eduardo Bello celebrates scoring against Brazil. AP

Brazil have never lost to Venezuela in a competitive fixture and have only once before, in 2009, failed to beat the 'Vinotinto' in World Cup qualifying, but they were