Argentina officially booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and they did it in a way that emphasized it. The reality champions gave a great 4-1 victory over arch rival Brazil, making a bold statement in their qualifying campaign.
The attraction of the goal between Uruguay and Bolivia had previously confirmed their qualifications for Argentina, but they simply were not satisfied with the cruising. Instead, they dismantled Brazil in a match that will be remembered for years.
Domination from the beginning
Argentina wasted no time claiming their rule. Julian Alvarez scored in just four minutes, weaving in past defenders and showing calm as he slammed past the goalkeeper vent and slotted the ball.
The pressure from Argentina didn’t stop there. In the 12th minute, Enzo Fernández doubled the lead with a well-placed shot inside the box. Brazil managed to pull back to the 26th minute through Christian Romero’s defensive slip court, Mateus Cunha, but hopes for a comeback were short-lived.
The Alexis Mac Allister recovered Argentina’s two-goal cushion in the 37th minute and finished a crisp pass from Fernandez. Coffin’s final claws came in the 71st minute when alternative Giuliano Simeone sealed a 4-1 victory and won Brazil in one of the most humiliating defeats in World Cup qualifying history.
Brazil left looking for the answer
The loss puts pressure on Dorival Junior, the Brazilian head coach, who is struggling to beat the fans. His team is currently sitting fourth in the South American standings with 21 points. Meanwhile, Argentina has continued to lead the table with 31 points from 14 games.
Brazilian captain Marquinhos did not refrain in an interview after the match. “What we did today is unacceptable. It’s embarrassing. We started inadequately and never recovered.
He also states, seeking accountability within the team, “This isn’t just about coaches. We have to take responsibility as players. We need to be better.”
Historical rivalry, unilateral events
Argentina now extends its unbeaten run against Brazil to six years, highlighting the widening gap between the two South American giants. What was expected to be a fierce battle turned into a one-sided event, and Brazil frantically tried to answer.
The 2026 World Cup is expected to be hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico, so Argentina is already a force to consider. Meanwhile, Brazil needs to reorganize quickly if they want to avoid further setbacks on the path to qualification.
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