“Finally ended our left winger curse”, “What a player” - Fans thrilled after watching Lionel Messi’s Argentina teammate in 1-0 win over Chile

Fans were in awe of Thiago Almada’s performance in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying match between Argentina and Chile on Thursday (June 5). The 24-year-old put in a strong performance on the right wing as La Albiceleste secured a 1-0 win in a scrappy contest at Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos.

Having already secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, manager Lionel Scaloni named an experimental starting XI, with returnees Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez starting from the bench. However, Chile, struggling to secure the sole inter-confederation playoff position, needed a win. Thus, it came as no surprise when Alexis Sanchez registered the first shot on target for the Chileans just four minutes in.

Meanwhile, their strong start didn’t last long, as Argentina immediately took possession, and it took only 16 minutes for the reigning World Cup champions to take the lead. Thiago Almada received a pass from his own half and made a blistering run into the final third before finding Lautaro Martinez, who capped it off with a brilliant dink over the onrushing goalkeeper.

Scaloni's men kept increasing the pressure, but their only other shot on target was stopped by Brayan Cortés, meaning they took a slender advantage into the break. While Lionel Messi was introduced in the second half, Chile showed more intent in front of the goal, but goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made two crucial saves in the next 45 minutes to secure victory for La Albiceleste.

Thiago Almada, who made his ninth senior appearance for Argentina, impressed on the night. He registered 83% passing accuracy, created one big chance, and received a rating of 7.6 according to Sofascore.

After the match, fans took to X to praise his performance, with one writing:

"Almada finally ended our left winger curse."

Another tweeted:

"Thiago Almada what a player."

"Just watched the Argentina game and while the squad is full of big names Messi, Alvarez, Emi, etc but people need to realize the emergence of Thiago Almada. Once again shined, for me best player tonight, he will be a major factor if Argentina repeats as World Champions," @AhsanQuadri_ wrote.

"Almada is a great find!! Great resource for the Worldcup," @yasinrelay stated.

"Masterclass. What a bright future," @karanhans0812 added.

"Thiago Almada is the perfect Dimaria replacement for Argentina What a player!," @Donchisco001 wrote.

Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni says “Chile is a though opponent” after 1-0 win

Lionel Scaloni spoke highly of Chile even after his team defeated them to extend their lead at the top of the table. He said in the post-match press conference (via Ysscores):

"Chile is a tough opponent for everyone; they have played good matches, especially in the last few games."

Scaloni's men will next be in action against Colombia on June 11.