Argentina started without their captain Lionel Messi, but a magical touch from Angel Di Maria was enough to secure a deserved 1-0 victory over Uruguay in the World Cup qualifiers in Montevideo. Di Maria sent a stunning shot from inside the penalty area, beyond the reach of Uruguay's goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, just six minutes into the match to give the visiting team three points.
The victory raised Argentina's points tally to 28, placing them second in the World Cup qualifying standings, six points behind leaders Brazil, who defeated Colombia last Thursday, becoming the first South American team to secure a spot in the World Cup finals. The top four teams qualify directly for the finals, while the fifth-placed team enters a global playoff. Uruguay remains on 16 points, in fourth place, tied with Chile and Colombia, while Ecuador holds third place.
