Argentina vs. Colombia: A Historic Match in World Cup Qualifying

5-0 Defeat for Argentina at Estadio Monumental

Argentina's World Cup Hopes Hang in the Balance

In a stunning upset, Colombia defeated Argentina 5-0 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires during the 1994 FIFA World Cup qualifying match. The match marked a significant moment in Colombian football history, as it secured their automatic qualification for the tournament in the United States. For Argentina, however, the defeat cast a shadow over their chances of making it to the World Cup.

The match was played on September 5, 1993, and was the sixth match in the CONMEBOL qualification group. With a high-stakes atmosphere, Colombia dominated the proceedings from the start. Freddy Rincón opened the scoring in the 4th minute, followed by goals from Faustino Asprilla, Adolfo Valencia, and Iván Valenciano. The second half saw Argentina unable to mount a comeback, with Asprilla adding a fifth goal late in the game.

The victory for Colombia sent shockwaves through the footballing world. It was their first win over Argentina in a World Cup qualifier and it marked the end of a 32-match unbeaten streak for the Argentines at home. For Argentina, the defeat was a major setback. They were forced to play in the CONMEBOL CONCACAF OFC Intercontinental Play-off, where they eventually lost to Australia and failed to qualify for the World Cup.