Argentina fell to a shock 2-0 defeat to Bolivia in World Cup qualifying, after being forced to play without talisman Leo Messi due to a ban.

Messi won Argentina their last game 1-0 over Chile, but then berated the assistant referee after a foul was called against him.

The expletive laden abuse led to a four match international ban for the five time world player of the year, leading to speculation over how well his country would do without him in their line-up.

The answer is – not well.

Minnows Bolivia spanked the Albiceleste by 2-0 to drop Argentina to fifth and out of the automatic qualifying spots in South America.

In other South American qualification news, Brazil became the first team to book their place at next year’s Russian mundial. The five time world champions beat Paraguay 3-0 with Coutinho, Neymar and Marcelo getting on the score sheet. The win ensures Brazil cannot finish lower than fourth, which is the last automatic qualifying spot guaranteed to South America.