Argentina manager Jorge Sampaoli has insisted that he is "hopeful and excited" ahead of his side's final World Cup qualifier, as their place in Russia next summer continues to hang in the balance.
The 2014 finalists were unable to find a way past Peru in a goalless draw in the early hours of Friday morning, leaving them just outside the qualification spots.
Argentina have one game left to put things right, with a trip to Ecuador up next on Tuesday in a match that they must claim a positive result from and hope that results go their way elsewhere.
With Colombia and Peru, occupying fourth and fifth place respectively, due to face off on the same day, Sampaoli is optimistic of La Albiceleste's prospects.
"I am still confident that we will be at the World Cup," he told reporters. "Today was a very good game. We just missed a goal. I am very hopeful and excited about what is coming. The team never gave up, put in a huge effort and deserved another result."
Brazil are the only side from the CONMEBOL region to make certain of a place at Russia 2018.
