Argentina Draws with Venezuela as Brazil Clinches Late Win in World Cup Qualifiers

Lionel Messi returns to Argentina's lineup, but a rain-soaked pitch leads to a 1-1 draw in Venezuela, while Brazil secures a crucial 2-1 victory over Chile.

Lionel Messi played his first match for Argentina since July, following an ankle injury, but the team was held to a 1-1 draw by Venezuela in Maturín.
The match in Venezuela was delayed by 30 minutes due to heavy rain, which affected the pitch conditions and gameplay.
Nicolás Otamendi scored for Argentina in the 13th minute, but Salomón Rondón equalized for Venezuela in the 65th minute with a header.
Despite the draw, Argentina remains at the top of the South American World Cup qualifying standings with 19 points from nine matches.
Brazil's late 2-1 win over Chile, with a decisive goal from Luiz Henrique in the 89th minute, moves them to fourth place in the standings.