Venezuela also seeks their first World Cup appearance in history. Currently sitting seventh in the standings, they would be in an intercontinental playoff for a chance at a World Cup berth, and now with a four-point lead on Bolivia, they will set their eyes on catching Colombia for direct qualification instead of the playoff.

Messi is level with Colombia's Luis Diaz on six goals scored in World Cup qualifying. Argentina (31 points) are eight points clear of the rest of CONMEBOL with four games left to play, with a goal difference 10 better than anyone else.

World champions Argentina are back in action when they travel to Chile but they have little riding on the outcome of Thursday’s match. La Albiceleste secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup during the March international break and look destined to finish top of CONMEBOL qualifying.