Another defeat for Argentina has brought the spotlight on the country's problems.
Tim Vickery
Tim Vickery’s Notes from South America: can Messi save the day for Argentina?
As Argentina travel to face group leaders Brazil, the pressure is on for a country that has dropped out of the qualifying places for Russia
Tim Vickery’s Notes from South America: mood of almost religious fervour accompanies Cerro Porteno’s cup run
Paraguayan outfit Cerro Porteno are being carried along on a wave of near religious hysteria in this year's Copa Sudamericana.
Tim Vickery’s Notes from South America: Brazil puts sporting integrity ahead of financial considerations
Many of the stadiums built for the 2014 World Cup are underused, with the host clubs preferring to play their 'home' matches elsewhere to generate…
Tim Vickery’s Notes from South America: Lionel Messi’s absence highlights his importance to Argentina
There are two different Argentina teams: the one with Lionel Messi and the one without.
Tim Vickery’s Notes from South America: as daylight appears in race to Russia, Uruguay and Colombia renew hostilities
A win for either Colombia or Uruguay would represent a huge step in the face to qualify for the 2018 World Cup finals.
Tim Vickery’s Notes from South America: Chile may recall old stager to get World Cup campaign back on track
Having slipped to seventh in the race to reach Russia, Chile may be forced to go call up a player whose international career appeared to…
Tim Vickery’s Notes from South America: Palmeiras and Flamengo the teams to beat as title race hots up
The Brazilian Championship looks like it might come down to a two-horse race betweem Palmeiras and Flamengo.
Tim Vickery’s Notes from South America: in Gabriel Jesus, Brazil find a saviour
In-demand Gabriel Jesus shone for Brazil in the World Cup qualifiers, but a quick return to club action with Palmeiras may not have been in…
Tim Vickery’s Notes from South America: World Cup looks a long way away for Chile’s Golden Generation
In a highly competitive CONMEBOL qualifying group, Chile's Golden Generation cannot afford to drop too many more points.