One of international football’s most intense rivalries will resume this week as Argentina welcomes Brazil to Buenos Aires for a crucial World Cup qualifier. Argentina currently sits atop the South American standings with 28 points from 13 matches, following a narrow 1-0 victory in Uruguay last matchday.
Argentina’s confidence is high ahead of their return to Estadio Monumental, where they have won seven of their last eight World Cup qualifiers on home soil. The team’s success has been largely built on their defensive form, with seven consecutive home World Cup qualifier victories coming without conceding. In fact, Argentina has recorded an impressive 11 clean sheets across their last 12 home World Cup qualifiers dating back to September 2021.
However, Argentina’s defensive record will face a significant test as Brazil arrives in Buenos Aires. Brazil is coming off a thrilling 2-1 victory at home to Colombia in their most recent World Cup qualifier, which was sealed with a 99th-minute winner. The win has boosted Brazil’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, and they will be looking to build on their momentum against Argentina.
Brazil’s recent form has been impressive, with the team now unbeaten in their last five World Cup qualifiers. This is a significant turnaround from their early struggles in the qualifying campaign, where they won just one of their opening six matches. Brazil’s growth as a team has been evident, and they will be looking to cause an upset against Argentina.
The match promises to be an intense and closely contested encounter, with both teams boasting talented players. Argentina’s Thiago Almada has been in fine form, scoring three goals across his last five internationals, all of which have come in wins without conceding. Meanwhile, Brazil’s Raphinha has been on fire, scoring four goals across his last four international caps.
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between two of South America’s footballing giants. With World Cup qualifying points on the line, both teams will be giving it their all to emerge victorious.
