Argentina Player Ratings vs Uruguay: No Magic Messi, No sad worries for Argentina 2026

Argentina Player Ratings vs Uruguay, In a gritty World Cup qualifier at the Estadio Centenario, Argentina edged out Uruguay 1-0, with Thiago Almada proving the difference-maker in the absence of Lionel Messi. The Inter Miami star was sidelined by injury, but Almada, formerly of Atlanta United, delivered a moment of magic with a curling second-half strike to seal the victory. For fans seeking Argentina player ratings vs Uruguay, this match showcased the Albiceleste’s depth and determination as they took another step toward the 2026 World Cup. Below, we break down each player’s performance, recap the game, and explore what this result means for Argentina’s qualification campaign.

Argentina Player Ratings vs Uruguay: Thiago Almada Steps Up in Messi’s Absence to Secure Crucial Win

The clash between Argentina and Uruguay was far from a classic, defined by a scrappy midfield battle and limited scoring opportunities. The first half saw both teams struggle to create, with Argentina’s closest chance coming when Enzo Fernandez’s shot was blocked from close range. Uruguay, despite home advantage, failed to trouble Emi Martinez significantly.

The second half followed a similar pattern until Thiago Almada changed the narrative. In the 65th minute, he received the ball on the left, shifted onto his right foot, and unleashed a stunning curling effort into the top corner. It was a rare moment of quality in an otherwise dour contest. Argentina then shifted into game-management mode, thwarting Uruguay’s late attempts to equalize—even after Nico Gonzalez’s red card left them with 10 men. For those analyzing Argentina player ratings vs Uruguay, Almada’s heroics and the team’s resilience were the standout takeaways.

Argentina Player Ratings vs Uruguay: Who Shone and Who Struggled?

Here’s how Argentina’s players rated out of 10 in their hard-fought victory over Uruguay, based on their contributions in this CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier.

Goalkeeper & Defense

Emi Martinez (6/10)
Martinez had little to do, as Uruguay rarely threatened. A first-half collision with a teammate briefly disrupted him, but he recovered to keep a clean sheet. A steady, if untested, performance in the Argentina player ratings vs Uruguay.
Nahuel Molina (5/10)
Molina struggled at right-back, often beaten in one-on-one situations. His defensive lapses were noticeable, though he avoided catastrophic errors.
Christian Romero (6/10)
Romero’s task was simple: maintain possession and defensive structure. He executed this well, contributing to Argentina’s shutout.
Nicolas Otamendi (6/10)
Otamendi faced a lively Darwin Nunez and emerged triumphant with timely blocks and tackles. His experience was key to Argentina’s defensive solidity.
Nicolas Tagliafico (7/10)
Tagliafico impressed on the left, pressing high and winning possession. His involvement in the build-up to Almada’s goal earned him a high mark in the Argentina player ratings vs Uruguay.

Midfield

Leandro Paredes (8/10)
Paredes was exceptional, dominating midfield duels and distributing calmly under pressure. His performance anchors the midfield in these Argentina player ratings vs Uruguay.
Alexis Mac Allister (7/10)
Mac Allister brought energy and broke lines with forward runs. While he didn’t create directly, his tenacity was vital in a scrappy game.
Enzo Fernandez (5/10)
Fernandez underwhelmed, misplacing passes and failing to connect play. His dip in form since the 2022 World Cup continued here.

Attack

Giuliano Simeone (5/10)
Simeone ran tirelessly but offered little in the final third. His effort created space, yet lacked a decisive impact.
Julian Alvarez (5/10)
Alvarez found it tough as the lone striker, isolated against Uruguay’s backline. He thrives with a partner, and his struggles were evident.
Thiago Almada (8/10)
Almada was the star, scoring a breathtaking goal to win the match. His creativity and composure stood out, topping the Argentina player ratings vs Uruguay.

Substitutes & Manager

Nico Gonzalez (4/10)
Gonzalez brought fresh legs but marred his cameo with a late red card for a reckless tackle, forcing Argentina to finish with 10.
Exequiel Palacios (N/A)
Too little time to influence proceedings.
Leonardo Balderi (N/A)
Minimal impact in his brief appearance.
Angel Correa (N/A)
Late substitute with no notable contribution.
Lionel Scaloni (7/10)
Scaloni’s pragmatic approach paid off. Without Messi, he fielded a strong XI that capitalized on a rare chance and defended stoutly—a solid away showing.

Key Moments That Shaped the Game

Fernandez’s Missed Chance (18th Minute)
Enzo Fernandez’s blocked shot was Argentina’s best first-half opportunity, hinting at the game’s tight margins.
Almada’s Stunner (65th Minute)
Thiago Almada’s curling goal broke the stalemate, showcasing his ability to deliver in clutch moments.
Otamendi’s Clutch Block (72nd Minute)
Otamendi’s intervention against Nunez preserved Argentina’s lead, underlining his defensive value.
Gonzalez’s Red Card (85th Minute)
Nico Gonzalez’s dismissal added tension, but Argentina’s resolve held firm.

These moments are critical when evaluating Argentina player ratings vs Uruguay, spotlighting individual brilliance amid a collective effort.

Tactical Breakdown: Life Without Messi

Thiago Almada goal vs Uruguay, Lionel Scaloni opted for a 4-3-3, with Paredes as the midfield pivot and Almada given license to drift behind Alvarez. Without Messi, Argentina’s attack lacked its usual flair, relying heavily on Almada’s ingenuity. Defensively, Scaloni prioritized structure, neutralizing Uruguay’s press through Paredes’ poise and Tagliafico’s aggression.

Julian Alvarez’s isolation up top highlighted the void left by Messi’s playmaking, but Almada’s goal papered over these cracks. Argentina’s ability to adapt and win without their captain is a testament to Scaloni’s preparation—a key factor in their World Cup qualification push.

Social Media Buzz: Fans React to Almada’s Heroics

Post-match reactions on X reflected Argentina’s fanbase sentiment. One user wrote, “Thiago Almada is a gem—pure quality when we needed it most.” Another praised the team’s grit: “No Messi, no worries. Depth for days.” Criticism lingered, though, with a fan noting, “We’re not the same without Messi’s spark.” These responses echo the highs and lows of the Argentina player ratings vs Uruguay.

Implications for Argentina’s 2026 World Cup Journey

Thiago Almada goal vs Uruguay, This win bolsters Argentina’s lead in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, edging them closer to the 2026 World Cup. Thiago Almada’s emergence as a reliable option in Messi’s absence is a major positive, especially with the captain’s injury concerns. Grinding out results in hostile venues like Montevideo signals a team built for the long haul.

Still, Argentina must refine their attack sans Messi. Overreliance on his creativity could prove costly against tougher opposition. Developing players like Almada and Mac Allister will be key to their World Cup aspirations.

Conclusion: Thiago Almada goal vs Uruguay

The Argentina player ratings vs Uruguay paint a picture of a team that leaned on individual brilliance and collective resolve to secure a vital 1-0 win. Thiago Almada’s sensational goal stole the show, while Leandro Paredes and Nicolas Tagliafico provided the backbone. Without Lionel Messi, Argentina weren’t at their free-flowing best, but Lionel Scaloni’s pragmatic tactics ensured they didn’t need to be. This victory reinforces their status as CONMEBOL frontrunners and highlights their adaptability—a promising sign as they march toward the 2026 World Cup.

No Messi, no problem.

Argentina get the 1-0 win in Uruguay in World Cup qualifying 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/GGESf6PwcJ

— B/R Football (@brfootball) March 22, 2025

FAQs: Thiago Almada goal vs Uruguay

1. Why didn’t Lionel Messi play against Uruguay?
Messi injury, Messi was ruled out with a low-grade adductor injury from his time at Inter Miami.

2. Who scored Argentina’s goal against Uruguay?
Thiago Almada netted the winner with a curling right-footed shot in the 65th minute.

3. How did Argentina cope without Messi?
Messi injury, They lacked creativity but compensated with a solid defense and Almada’s decisive contribution.

4. Where does Argentina stand in the CONMEBOL qualifiers?
Argentina tops the table, with this win widening their lead in the race for 2026 World Cup qualification.

5. How did Uruguay challenge Argentina?
Darwin Nunez tested the defense, but Argentina’s backline, led by Otamendi, stood firm.

Must Read: Ronaldo is finished