A cracking strike from Juanpi and Josef Martinez gave the Vinotinto a hefty advantage, but the Albiceleste kept battling and drew level through Lucas Pratto and Nicolas Otamendi
Argentina staged a great escape to come away from Merida with a share of the points, as they battled back from two goals down to take a 2-2 draw against Venezuela.
Edgardo Bauza looked to be heading for his first loss at the Argentina helm, but Otamendi produced an instinctive volley to level the score seven minutes from time and deny Venezuela a first win of the campaign.
The Albiceleste were unable to call upon Lionel Messi, whose goal on his return from international retirement secured a 1-0 victory over Uruguay last Thursday sent them top of the table, due to a hamstring injury, and his absence almost proved extremely costly.
Argentina fell behind in the first half to an exquisite left-footed strike from Juanpi for his first senior international goal, while Josef Martinez extended the advantage for Rafael Dudamel’s side eight minutes after half-time with a composed finish.
However, Lucas Pratto gave Argentina hope when he responded by opening his international account in just his second appearance, and Otamendi’s late strike ensured the spoils were shared.