Messi and Argentina unaware they had qualified for World Cup after Brazil draw

Lionel Messi and Argentina had no idea they'd qualified for the World Cup next winter after their draw with Brazil.

The two South American nations played out a goalless draw that was enough for the Copa America champions to qualify.

However many of their players didn't know the point was enough to seal qualification.

Argentina knew certain results needed to go their way, but fortune was on their side.

Uruguay had lost 3-0 against Bolivia in La Paz, Colombia and Paraguay drew and, crucially, Ecuador beat Chile.

Argentina look likely to qualify as South America's runners-up, with Brazil leading the way, although that could still change.

Messi, who remained unsure of the state of affairs, said after the draw: "I arrived with just enough, mostly because of the rhythm, and this was a very intense match. I'm fine, otherwise I wouldn't have played.

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"I have been standing for a long time and it is not easy to play with the rhythm that this game demanded.

"I couldn't get much into the game. I knew it was going to be locked with a lot of friction."

He then added: "The important thing is that we continue well, that we did not lose and we continue to grow. Hopefully next day we can qualify definitively, but we are close."

Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni also had to check with a staff member that his side had qualified for next winter's event.

He has led his nation to their first cup success for decades, but was keen to keep a lid on things.

"I don't like to make things bigger, you know how I am, but it's to be really proud of this team," he said.

"Having achieved the classification so far from the end, in a very tough tie and seeing how the matches are going, is to be proud and thank the players.

"With winning the Cup, qualifying for the World Cup and we remain undefeated, the year is magnificent, dreamed of."

Argentina haven't enjoyed World Cup success since Diego Maradona inspired them back in 1986. They also lifted it as hosts back in 1978.

Messi's best effort has been a runners-up medal back in 2014, when Argentina were beaten by Germany in extra-time.

Three years ago there were ousted in the last 16 by eventual winners France.

They will head to Qatar as the continent's reigning champions however following Copa America success against Brazil earlier this year, Messi's first international trophy.