Argentina will have few complaints after leaving Venezuela with a point. La Albiceleste spent most of the evening fighting rather sloppily, with Nicolas Otamendi’s goal helping to salvage a 1-1 draw.

Due to a rain delay the game was postponed for 30 minutes and a wet pitch appeared to suit the home team. Nevertheless, Argentina took the lead – albeit against the run of play – when Otamendi saved the ball from close range.

Venezuela came close just before half-time, Salomon Rondon’s clever volley saved by Albiceleste’s substitute goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli. They got a deserved equalizer after 65 minutes when experienced striker Rondon headed past two defenders and past a sprawling Rulli.

Messi looked poised to score a second goal, but Rafael Romo’s attempt was denied after firing into the box. Coach Lionel Scaloni switched to a back five shortly afterwards and will likely go home happy with a draw that keeps La Albiceleste in control of their own destiny in 2026 World Cup qualifying.

GOAL evaluates Argentina’s players from the Estadio Monumental de Maturín…