Argentina is set to host Brazil in Buenos Aires in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying match. The World Cup champions, Argentina, aim to secure their qualification for the upcoming tournament. They currently lead the group standings with 28 points after 13 games, while Brazil is in third place with 21 points. In the South American qualifiers, each team plays every other team twice. With the expanded World Cup format, CONMEBOL now has six direct qualification spots, and a seventh team can advance through inter-confederation playoffs.
Argentina`s coach, Lionel Scaloni, lauded his team`s performance in their recent 1-0 victory against Uruguay, achieved without Lionel Messi, who is recovering from an injury. Scaloni also addressed comments made by Brazilian player Raphinha before the game. The Barcelona winger had stated his intention to score and confidently mentioned defeating Argentina both on and off the field.
Scaloni expressed his disappointment with Raphinha`s remarks, emphasizing that while Argentina-Brazil matches are significant, they are ultimately just football games and should not escalate beyond sportsmanship. He recalled the friendly image of Messi and Neymar after the 2021 Copa America final, highlighting their friendship despite rivalry. Scaloni stressed that while both teams are competitive on the field, mutual respect and friendship should prevail, noting the common friendships between Argentinians and Brazilians.
Messi`s Absence
Lionel Messi was excluded from the Argentina squad for the matches against Uruguay and Brazil due to a minor adductor muscle injury sustained while playing for Inter Miami against Atlanta United on March 16. Despite initially being included in the provisional squad, Scaloni decided against risking further injury to Messi.
Previous Encounter
Argentina and Brazil have a long history with 109 matches played, Argentina winning 41 and Brazil 45, with 23 draws. In their most recent game in November 2023 for the World Cup qualifiers, Argentina secured a victory with a goal from Nicolas Otamendi. Argentina has won three of the last five matches against Brazil, including the 2021 Copa America final.
Possible Starting Lineups
Argentina Possible XI: Martinez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico; De Paul, Mac Allister; Simeone, Fernandez, Almada; Alvarez.
Brazil Possible XI: Bento; Vanderson, Marquinhos, Ortiz, Arana; Joelinton, Andre, Rodrygo, Raphinha, Vinicius; Pedro.
Match Prediction
Argentina currently leads the World Cup qualifying group and a victory over Brazil could solidify their place at the World Cup. Prediction: Argentina 1, Brazil 1.
