Paraguay remain top of the South America World Cup qualifying standings after holding 10-man Argentina to a draw.

Gabriel Heinze's own goal put Paraguay ahead in the 13th minute but Sergio Aguero equalised shortly after half-time.

Argentina enjoyed the better start and looked dangerous with Carlos Tevez and Lionel Messi in attack. Roman Riquelme crashed a 25-yard free-kick on to the crossbar early on, but the breakthrough came at the other end, against the run of play.

Under pressure from Nelson Haedo Valdez to meet a long ball, Heinze collided with his own goalkeeper Roberto Abondanzieri and headed into an empty net.

Things worsened for Argentina when Tevez was sent off for stamping on Paulo Da Silva and Abondanzieri was forced off through injury.

In the 61st minute Messi fed through Aguero, who went one-on-one chance with goalkeeper Justo Villar and slotted home the equaliser.

The goal galvanised Argentina, who went close to taking the lead with Fabricio Coliccini's header and two more chances for Aguero.

Substitute keeper Juan Carrizo ensured a point for the hosts when he superbly tipped Dante Lopez's header over the bar.

Paraguay are two points clear of the Albiceleste after seven rounds.