FCBARCELONA.CAT

16.10.2008 09:21

Brazil and Argentina surprised

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Leo Messi was part of the Argentina team that suffered an historic defeat at the hands of Chile in midweek, while Dani Alves did not appear for Brazil as they were held by Colombia in the Maracaná.

Argentina and Brazil were both surprised in their latest World Cup qualifiers on the road to South Africa in 2010. The Albiceleste suffered their first ever reverse in an official game against Chile as they were beaten 1-0, while the Brazilians were held to a goalless draw at home by Colombia.

Messi unable to find an opening

It was Messi that led Argentina forward and produced the majority of attacking play but, unlike in the previous encounter against Uruguay, he enjoyed no luck. The Chileans played better and deserved their win, which came thanks to a goal from Orellana in the 35th minute in front of a packed crowd in the Estadio Nacional de Santiago de Chile. Messi was at the forefront of all the best things that Argentina produced, but along with Sergio Agüero, the pair could not find a goal. After the defeat, Argentina are third in the group with 16 points, level with Chile. Paraguay are still out in front on 23 points while Brazil are second with 17 points.

Brazil off form against Colombia (0-0)

Alves did not appear for Brazil in the game against Colombia as the Canarinha were held to a goalless draw in a game that was as poor as the scoreline suggests. The visitors defended in numbers and Brazil were unable to find a way through.