Argentina and Lionel Messi are on the verge of missing the World Cup after stumbling to a 0-0 draw against Peru in Buenos Aires.

Only one round of qualifying remains in South America, with Messi and his team are in do or die situation when they face Ecuador, who are already eliminated.

Argentina were the runner-up to Germany in the World Cup three years ago in Brazil, will play on Tuesday against Ecuador in the thin air of Quito in the Andes.

They are in sixth place, with the top four teams advancing automatically. The fifth-place team can advance by winning a playoff against New Zealand.

Brazil has already qualified, and drew 0-0 against Bolivia on Thursday. Brazil has 38 points, followed by: Uruguay (28), Chile (26), Colombia (26), Peru (25), Argentina (25) and Paraguay (24).

Argentine will require all the luck they can get after a disappointing night in front of their home supporters.

Their players, led by Messi, all trudged off the pitch at full-time. Every single of them appeared disappointed with the outcome and know their destiny is now out of their hands heading into next week and the crucial match against Ecuador.

It is a game they really must win if they are to stand any realistic chance of qualifying for next summer's World Cup.

It is pertinent to mention here that, the South American side have never missed a World Cup since 1970.