The visitors and CONMEBOL qualification leaders, captained by Messi, took the lead in Paraguay after just 11 minutes through Lautaro Martinez. However a highlight reel-worthy bicycle kick from Antonio Sanabria levelled the score before half-time, and Omar Alderete netted what would be the winner early in the second 45.

Argentina’s visit to Paraguay had it all—goals, scoring opportunities, and controversy. Cameras captured Lionel Messi visibly frustrated with Brazilian referee Anderson Daronco and Lionel Scaloni calling him a "shameless" official.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni is confident there will be Lionel Messi jerseys in the home section despite the Paraguayan Football Association's ban on rival shirts.