FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifying: Uruguay Ends Lionel Messi's Argentina's Longest Winning Streak

Uruguay ended Argentina's longest unbeaten run in FIFA World Cup Qualifying history, which spanned 25 games.

Uruguay, in a World Cup qualifying match, secured 2-0 victory over Argentina on Thursday (November 16) at La Bombonera Stadium in Buenos Aires. This is Uruguay's most significant victory so far under new coach Marcelo Bielsa.

Notably, Uruguay vs Argentina FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifying match is also the first game in which Lionel Messi started for Argentina since last November in which he did not score.

Before losing to Uruguay, Argentina's previous loss in a competitive match was against Saudi Arabia in a group-stage match in previous year's FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Despite the recent loss to Uruguay, Argentina (12 points from five matches) continues to lead the 10-team South American qualifying group. Uruguay (10 points) holds the second position.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from a yet-to-be-determined date in June to July 19, 2026. The mega football tournament will be jointly hosted by 16 cities in 3 North American nations: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.