Argentina's Daniel Diaz (front) celebrates next to teammate Martin Demichelis after he scored a goal against Colombia in their 2010 World Cup qualifying soccer match in Buenos Aires, June 6, 2009.[Xinhua/Reuters Photo]

Former world champions Argentina clinched a crucial 1-0 win over Colombia at home on Saturday in a World Cup qualifier.

The victory lifted Argentina to 22 points in the qualifying group, keeping the two-time champions on course for a spot in next year's World Cup in South Africa.

The home side looked struggling to find its rhythm in the match and lacked spark in their attacks despite boasting some of the best strikers in the world.

But Daniel Diaz was on target in the 56th minute to give the hosts a victory.

Argentina's head coach Diego Maradona celebrates after a goal against Colombia in their 2010 World Cup qualifying soccer match in Buenos Aires June 6, 2009.[Xinhua/Reuters Photo]

The victory made up some way for Argentina's previous qualifier, a humiliating 6-1 loss at Bolivia, Diego Maradona's first major defeat since taking over the national coaching job in November.

Argentina plays at Ecuador on Wednesday and Colombia is at home against Peru.

The loss leaves Colombia on 14 points with five matches remaining and seemingly unlikely of securing one of the four automatic qualification berths.