Diego Maradona’s men produced a dogged display to see off their nearest group rivals and ensure that Argentina avoided adding to their 1970 failure to reach the world finals.
In a game of few chances, a goal by substitute Mario Bolatti in the 89th minute settled the game. A free-kick by Lionel Messi was taken short to Juan Sebastian Veron whose shot was blocked - only for it to fall to Bolatti who stabbed home from close range.
On the balance of play it was just about deserved for the visitors, who restricted Uruguay to few chances whilst creating few for themselves. Uruguay will now face the lottery of a playoff.
The home side started the match in a hurry harassing the Argentinean defence and creating a few scrappy half chances. Luis Suarez found himself clear of the defence only to scuff his shot, while a sharp turn and run by Diego Forlan resulted in a tame shot easily saved by Fernando Muslera.
Uruguay continued to huff and puff without blowing the Argentina house down in the second half. Luis Suarez threatened the scorers with a shot saved by Sergio Romero and a glaring miss by Diego Lugano seemed to finally kill their spirits.
A free-kick by Forlan delivered expertly into the box found Lugano unmarked in the penalty area but the defender only managed to head the ball towards the corner flag when well placed.
The miss was crucial however, as both sides began to settle for a draw - an Argentina free kick eventually finding its way to Bolatti who made no mistake.
His goal and subsequent full-time whistle sparked frenzied celebrations from Maradona and his staff - leaving us in little doubt that the man is still touched by the hand of God.
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