Venezuela have continued their fairytale attempt to qualify for the 2026 World Cup with a brilliant feat against South American champions and table-toppers Argentina, MySportDab reports.
Argentina went into the game as clear favourites, having gone two points clear on the table with 18 points.
They have been the best contender in the competition with only two defeats and six wins.
On the other hand, Venezuela have shown resilience with only two defeats, four draws, and two wins enough to boost their chances of qualification for the Mundial in 2026.
Argentina dominated proceedings and it was just a matter of time before they raced into the lead. Nicolas Otamendi opened the scoring for the away side in the 13th minutes and the goal was enough to see them through the first half with a lead.
Venezuela struggled with possession but were deadly in the attack. They fired 16 shots, double Argentina’s tally with six on target against the visitors’ four.
Despite playing second fiddle to the table-toppers, promising counter attacks and spirited display was reassuring of a breakthrough and they finally made it happen.
35-year-old former West Brom, Newcastle United and now Pachuca forward Salomon Rondon scored five minutes after the hour mark to peg the visitors to a dramatic 1-1 draw.
Argentina pushed to retake the lead but could not find a breakthrough as the hosts held on to secure a vital point after the final whistle.
The draw has seen Argentina retain their top spot with 19 points, thanks to a shock defeat to second-placed Colombia away to Bolivia.
Venezuela are seventh with 11 points, a point away from the automatic qualification slot which is now occupied by Bolivia.
They will return to action against Paraguay in the next match on Wednesday, October 16 while Argentina hosts Bolivia on same date.
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