Lionel Messi scored from the penalty spot as VAR kept lucky Argentina alive with a 1-1 draw against Paraguay in Copa America 2019. Messi netted in the 57th minute after Ivan Peris was adjudged to have a handled a Lautaro Matinez shot that crashed against the crossbar. The draw kept Argentina’s hope of reaching the quarterfinals. Copa America 2019: Duvan Zapata Powers Colombia to 1–0 Win Over Qatar.

They, however, are at the bottom of Group B which is led by Colombia. Los Cafeteros has already qualified for the knockout round and are assured of topping the group having beaten Argentina and Qatar for their six points from two games. Both Argentina and Qatar have one point each, while Paraguay are on second with two points. Copa America 2019 Schedule in IST, Free PDF Download: Get Fixtures, Groups and Time Table With Match Timings and Venue Details of Football Tournament in Brazil.

Richard Sanchez put Paraguay ahead in the 37th minute after a superb run from Newcastle United midfielder Miguel Almiron, who chased a heavy ball on the left before crossing for Sanchez to find the bottom right corner and net his first international goal. In so many ways were Paraguay – without a victory in their last 10 Copa America games – better than a vulnerable Argentina side, who seemed to be playing without any plan or structure and were only hoping for a Messi miracle.

Argentina vs Paraguay 1-1; Watch All Goals & Highlights:

Los Guaraníes, as Paraguay are nicknamed, could have clinched all three points had Derlis Gonzalez converted his spot-kick in the second half. The penalty was awarded after a poor challenge by Nicolas Otamendi on the same player but Argentina Goalkeeper Franco Armani guess correct and dived to his right to keep Argentina alive in the game. Armani himself could have been sent off in the first half for his ridiculous kick on Gonzalez while attempting to clear a loose ball.

The match, however, was marred by several stops-starts with both teams conceding a number of tactical fouls on the opponents. By the time the final whistle was blown the referee had already dished out six yellow cards, some of which could have easily been red on another day.

Argentina next play Qatar on June 24 (Monday), while Paraguay face leaders Colombia in their final group game on the same day. The Lionel Messi-led side has to not only defeat Qatar but also hope that Colombia beats Paraguay. In case Paraguay upsets Colombia, Argentina can still qualify as one of the two best third-placed teams.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 20, 2019 09:16 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).