Argentina vs Colombia: A Historic World Cup Qualifying Match

Background

The 1994 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between Argentina and Colombia on September 5, 1993, was a pivotal moment in both teams' histories. Argentina, one of the favorites to win the World Cup, needed a victory to secure a spot in the tournament, while Colombia was hoping to pull off an upset.

Key Moments

The match was filled with drama and excitement. Colombia took an early lead with a goal by Faustino Asprilla, but Argentina came back with a vengeance. Claudio Caniggia equalized for Argentina in the 44th minute, and Gabriel Batistuta gave Argentina the lead in the 75th minute. Colombia would not go down without a fight, however, and Asprilla scored again in the 85th minute. With the match heading into extra time, Argentina seemed to have the upper hand. However, Colombia had a secret weapon up their sleeve. In the 114th minute, Valderrama found himself with the ball on the right flank. He crossed it into the box, and Andres Escobar, attempting to clear the ball, accidentally misjudged its path and knocked it into his own net. The own goal gave Colombia a 3-2 lead, and they held on for the victory.

Aftermath

Colombia's victory was a major upset and sent shockwaves through the football world. Argentina, who had been expected to win the World Cup, were eliminated from contention. Colombia, on the other hand, qualified for their first World Cup since 1962. Escobar's own goal would have a tragic ending. After the World Cup, he was shot and killed in his hometown of Medellin by gunmen who believed he had been responsible for Colombia's elimination from the tournament. The Argentina vs Colombia match is remembered as one of the most dramatic and controversial matches in World Cup history. It is a testament to the unpredictable nature of football and the passion that the sport can evoke.