Argentina vs Brazil

Argentina can officially secure their place at the 2026 World Cup when they host archrivals Brazil on Tuesday at the Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires.

Lionel Scaloni’s squad currently tops the CONMEBOL qualifying standings with 28 points, while Brazil sits seven points behind in third. Though Argentina’s qualification isn’t yet mathematically confirmed, their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Uruguay on Friday—without the injured Lionel Messi—has all but guaranteed their spot.

Thiago Almada, on loan from Botafogo to Lyon, delivered a spectacular second-half strike in Montevideo, sealing the win with his third international goal. The result ended Argentina’s three-match winless streak in away qualifiers.

With nine wins, one draw, and three losses in 13 matches, Argentina leads the South American qualifiers by three points. Their strong defense has conceded just seven goals while scoring 22.

Now, the reigning World Cup champions turn their attention to Tuesday’s blockbuster showdown against Brazil. The hosts will aim to extend their four-game unbeaten streak against their historic rivals.

Brazil has established itself as a formidable opponent, remaining unbeaten in their last five World Cup qualifiers. This impressive run includes consecutive victories over Chile and Peru during the October international break.

In November, they had to settle for draws against Venezuela and Uruguay before bouncing back with a dramatic home win over Colombia on Thursday. The five-time world champions appeared to be heading for a third straight 1-1 draw after Luis Díaz equalized Raphinha’s early penalty. However, Vinícius Júnior struck from long range in the 99th minute, securing Brazil’s latest last-minute winner since Casemiro’s goal against Colombia in the 2021 Copa América.

With 21 points from 13 matches, Brazil sits third in the standings, holding an eight-point cushion over Bolivia, who occupy the inter-confederation playoff spot.

Despite their solid position, the Selecao’s away form is a concern, as they have managed just one win in their last five qualifiers (D1, L3). As they prepare to face Argentina, they will be aiming for their first victory over their rivals since a 2-0 triumph in the 2019 Copa América semi-finals.