Argentina got a hard-earned victory in the World Cup qualifiers. The world champions beat Peru 1-0 at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires today. Lionel Scaloni's men had 74 percent possession throughout the match, taking 10 shots.
La Albiceleste went into the break goalless, but took the lead in the second half. Lautaro Martinez found the net from Lionel Messi's pass in the 55th minute. The goal was a sight to behold. Entering the box, Messi floated the ball at an angle between the two defenders. Peru's defenders stood like soldiers but could not protect the goal post. Martinez jumped up and sent the bicycle kick into the net. Argentina returned to victory after 1 match with this eye-catching goal. Scaloni's side lost 2-1 to Paraguay in the qualifiers last week.
Martinez made a new record by scoring against Peru. The Inter Milan forward sits next to 'God of Football' Diego Maradona, who is fifth in Argentina's all-time top scorers list. The goal number of both is 32. Messi is on top of this list (112). Gabriel Batistuta (55), Sergio Aguero (41) and Hernán Crespo (35) followed.
Messi has created a new record by assisting in this match. Former United States forward Landon Donovan has reached the list of highest assists in international football history. The number of assists of the two is 58.
Argentina is at the top with 25 points from 12 games in CONMEBOL qualifiers. Peru is at the end with 7 points.
