Argentina delivered a commanding 4-1 victory over Brazil in a highly anticipated South American World Cup qualifier at Estadio Monumental. Despite missing key players, including Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez, and Paulo Dybala, La Albiceleste displayed a dominant performance, securing an emphatic win against their arch-rivals. The reigning world champions, already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, showcased their depth and quality as they dismantled Brazil with a dazzling first-half display.
Argentina’s Early Dominance Sets the Tone
The match began with Argentina taking immediate control. Julian Álvarez set the tone with an early goal in the 4th minute, weaving through Brazil’s defense before calmly slotting the ball past goalkeeper Bento. Just eight minutes later, Enzo Fernández doubled the lead, capitalizing on Nahuel Molina’s deflected cross at the back post.
Brazil struggled to find their rhythm, managing only one shot on target throughout the match. Their only moment of hope arrived in the 26th minute when Cristian Romero’s lapse in concentration allowed Matheus Cunha to steal possession and fire a low shot into the bottom corner, briefly reducing the deficit to 2-1.
However, Argentina responded quickly. Enzo Fernández played a perfectly curled pass over the Brazilian defense in the 37th minute, allowing Alexis Mac Allister to lift the ball over Bento, restoring the two-goal cushion before halftime.
Simeone Seals the Win
Argentina continued to dominate in the second half, and their fourth goal arrived in the 71st minute. Giuliano Simeone, making a memorable impact off the bench, finished a precise cross at the back post to put the game beyond doubt. The 21-year-old’s first international goal added to the jubilant atmosphere in Buenos Aires.
Tactical Superiority and Key Performances
Despite the absence of Messi and other key players, Argentina’s midfield and defensive stability proved crucial. Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister orchestrated the game, dictating play with precision. Julian Álvarez, who has been in outstanding form for Atlético Madrid, took on the goal-scoring responsibility with confidence.
On the Brazilian side, head coach Dorival Júnior had to cope with a depleted squad. Missing stars like Neymar, Gabriel Jesus, and Casemiro, Brazil lacked creativity and struggled to break down Argentina’s well-organized defense. Bento, deputizing for the injured Alisson and Ederson, had a difficult night between the posts.
Match Statistics
- Final Score: Argentina 4-1 Brazil
- Goalscorers:
- Julian Álvarez (4′)
- Enzo Fernández (12′)
- Matheus Cunha (26′)
- Alexis Mac Allister (37′)
- Giuliano Simeone (71′)
- Shots on Target: Argentina – 7, Brazil – 1
- Possession: Argentina – 58%, Brazil – 42%
- Pass Accuracy: Argentina – 87%, Brazil – 81%
Argentina’s Road to the 2026 World Cup
With this victory, Argentina continues to dominate the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, sitting comfortably atop the table. Having already secured qualification thanks to Bolivia and Uruguay’s draw earlier in the day, Lionel Scaloni’s squad looks poised to defend their world title in 2026.
Brazil’s Struggles in Qualifying
Brazil, despite their recent victory over Colombia, faces growing concerns. The absence of experienced players has exposed vulnerabilities in the squad. Currently in third place, they need strong performances in the remaining fixtures to solidify their qualification hopes.
Argentina will look to maintain their winning momentum in upcoming qualifiers, while Brazil must regroup and address their weaknesses ahead of crucial matches. With just four games left in the qualifying campaign, every point matters.
