South American World Cup Qualifying - Brazil Booed Off

Both South American powers stumbled on Wednesday night as Argentina lost to Chile and Brazil were held scoreless in Rio de Janeiro by Columbia.  Meanwhile, Paraguay moved farther ahead as the defeated Peru.

Surprise group leaders Paraguay extended their lead farther last night as they took care of bottom side Peru 1-0.  It took a late goal from substitute Edgar Benitez in the 82nd minute to grab the points and Paraguay looks a lock for their 4th straight World Cup appearance.

Argentina was missing playmaker Riquelme due to suspension and the side never had an answer for a lively Chilean side.  Fabian Orellana scored the winner in the 37th minute and Chile claimed their first win over Argentina in 35 years.  "I have never seen a performance like this from Chile, it was amazing how much running they did, they were like a machine and pressed us in every part of the pitch and didn't let us settle," said Argentina coach Alfio Basile.

Meanwhile, Brazil was laying a clunker of their own at home to Columbia.   Brazil has never had problems scoring goals in the past, but the 0-0 draw was the fifth time Brazil has been shutout in this qualifying round.  The home crowd sent the Brazilians off the field to a chorus of jeers.