Updated: Nov 19, 2024, 10:50 pm
Argentina striker Lautaro Martinez scored in the second half to secure a 1-0 home win against Peru in South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday.
Martinez scored 10 minutes after the break, capitalising on a fine cross from Lionel Messi to fire home a half-volley into the top-right corner.
The Inter Milan striker’s 32nd international goal moved him level with Diego Maradona in fifth spot in the country’s all-time scoring charts.
“I’m happy because my whole family came and I always want to give my best. This year was very positive and luckily we closed it with a victory,” Martinez told local TV.
Getty Images
“It was a spectacular year in terms of performance, goals, games played. We have to keep playing and improving day by day.
“Everyone wants to beat us. Argentina’s national team are always the main characters. There are things to improve but we have to continue on this path.”
The World Cup holders lead the CONMEBOL standings with 25 points, five clear of Uruguay who play later in the day at Brazil. Peru are bottom of the 10-team table with seven points after 12 games.
The top six qualify automatically for the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
“We are Copa America champions, we are first in the qualifiers. We have to be proud,” Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez said.
