Argentina Player Ratings vs Venezuela: Lionel Messi remained silent as La Albiceleste settled for a draw in difficult conditions

Argentina will have few complaints after leaving Venezuela with a point. La Albiceleste spent most of the evening fighting rather sloppily, with Nicolas Otamendi's goal helping to salvage a 1-1 draw.

Due to a rain delay the game was postponed for 30 minutes and a wet pitch appeared to suit the home team. Nevertheless, Argentina took the lead – albeit against the run of play – when Otamendi converted the ball from close range after 13 minutes.

Venezuela came close just before half-time when veteran striker Salomon Rondon's deft volley was saved by Albiceleste's substitute goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli. But Rondon's moment came when he headed past two defenders and past a sprawling Rulli in the 65th minute.

Lionel Messi looked poised to score a second goal, but Rafael Romo was denied his attempt after firing into the box late in the game. Coach Lionel Scaloni switched to a back five shortly afterwards and will likely go home happy with a draw that leaves La Albiceleste largely in control of their own destiny in 2026 CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying.

GOAL evaluates Argentina's players from the Estadio Monumental de Maturín…