Scaloni delighted as Argentina qualify for the 2022 World Cup

Lionel Scaloni

is enjoying a “magnificent year” as

got the 2022 World Cup qualification after winning the Copa America this year.

Notwithstanding a goalless draw against

, Scaloni’s men booked a place at Qatar 2022, when Colombia, Uruguay and Chile failed to win in CONMEBOL on Tuesday.

Argentina are celebrating a successful year as they get ready for next year’s World Cup on the back of a Copa America victory.

"

This was a magnificent year,"

Scaloni said.

"Winning the Copa, qualifying for the World Cup unbeaten. It was a dream

."

"We got four points against two very difficult rivals. We all like to win of course but these games help a team to mature. Without a doubt, the balance is positive.

"Having qualified so far in advance, in a really difficult qualifying section, is something we should be proud of."

Lionel Messi

returned to action but couldn’t inspire his side, who have continued their run of 27 unbeaten matches across all competitions.

Their performance had them waiting for

to lose their battle 2-0 against Ecuador to get qualified.

Brazil are leading the CONMEBOL standings with six points clear and Argentina sit second.

Following his low-spirit performance, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi, who did not feature for

in their last two matches before the international break, reduced his fitness concerns.

"

I'm fine otherwise I wouldn't have played,"

Messi said.

"I've been standing for a long time and it's not easy to play a game with as much pace as this one.

"Luckily I'm fine and I know that little by little I'm going to pick up the pace. I hope I can finish the year well."

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