Argentina have qualified for the 2019 Women’s World Cup after defeating Panama 5-1 on aggregate in the CONCACAF/​CONMEBOL playoff. A 1-1 draw in the second leg was sufficient to see Argentina through.

A 4-0 loss in the first leg in Buenos Aires meant that the Cañaleras were largely playing for pride, but on their return to Panama City, they had Argentina on the back foot in the first half. Natalia MILLS scored the opener for the home side in the 37th minute. The Albiceleste, though, would restore their four goal aggregate lead midway through the second half through Florencia BONSEGUNDO. Only a late red card to Argentine substitute Yamila RODRÍGUEZ dampened the visiting side’s celebrations.

Panama are eliminated just one step away from their first Women’s World Cup appearance. Argentina return to the world’s highest stage after two previous appearances in 2003 and 2007, bowing out at the group phase each time.