J. Sampaoli: I am still confident that we will qualify for the World Cup

Despite the draw with Peru, Argentina's national team coach Jorge Sampaoli still feels confident that his players will make it to the World Cup.

However, led by Lionel Messi, the Argentinians failed to take advantage of numerous opportunities last night, making it very difficult, as they now only occupy seventh place, which doesn't even guarantee the right to play in the playoff match.

On Tuesday night, Argentina will face a crucial battle with Ecuador and will need favorable results from other stadiums, but the strategist believes they can travel to Russia next year.

"I am still confident that we will be in the World Cup," Sampaoli said at a press conference.

"Today's match was very good. We just lacked a goal. I have a lot of hope and can't wait to see what awaits us."

"The team never gave up, put in a lot of effort, and deserved a different result."

Sampaoli especially praised Messi, who, according to the coach, created many opportunities and made good passes. However, in the second part of the qualifying cycle, he only scored four times in nine matches.