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Argentina faced Paraguay in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers fixture at Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asunción on November 15. The current World champions suffered a 1-2 defeat against the hosts Paraguay. Apart from that, Lionel Messi also faced some intense heat from the Paraguay fans as they threw water bottles on the Argentine skipper during the high-voltage match.
After the completion of the match, Paraguay defender Omar Alderete apologised to Lionel Messi for the way his team’s fans misbehaved towards him. Alderete also clarified this is not the representation of what his country's people feel for the star Argentine player, who won the FIFA World Cup a couple of years ago in Qatar while captaining his team.
You are a role model for millions: Omar Alderete apologises to Lionel Messi for the way Paraguay fans misbehaved with them
Omar Alderete felt guilty for the gestures of Paraguay fans towards Lionel Messi during the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers - CONMEBOL fixture in Asunción on Friday. 'Dear Messi, I want to apologize on behalf of my country for the unfortunate incident in which someone threw a bottle at you. You are a role model for millions here and around the world. This deeply disrespectful act does not represent the affection and admiration we feel for you,' Omar was quoted as saying by India Today.
Talking about the match, Paraguay secured a 2-1 win even after Argentina took an early lead in the 11th minute. However, there hasn’t been much change in the points table as Argentina are still at the top with seven wins and three losses in 11 games, while Paraguay are at sixth spot with four wins and three losses in 11 games. The top six teams will get direct qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be played in the North American countries including Canada, Mexico, and the United States of America.
