Argentina delivered a stunning 4-1 victory over Brazil in their South American World Cup qualifier on Tuesday, piling pressure on Brazil’s manager Dorival Jr. The reigning world champions outclassed their rivals at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, sealing their place at the 2026 World Cup with a dominant performance.
Julian Alvarez set the tone early, scoring in the fourth minute after a clever pass from Thiago Almada. The Manchester City forward evaded two defenders before calmly slotting past goalkeeper Bento. “We humbly did our job and played a great game. We gave them a show,” Alvarez said post-match.
Argentina doubled their lead in the 12th minute with a brilliant team goal finished by Enzo Fernandez. A swift combination between Rodrigo de Paul, Almada, and Alvarez set up Nahuel Molina’s low cross, which Fernandez tapped in at the far post.
Brazil briefly found a lifeline in the 26th minute when a defensive lapse from Cristian Romero allowed Matheus Cunha to score. However, Argentina quickly reasserted control, with Alexis Mac Allister restoring their two-goal advantage in the 37th minute, finishing off a Fernandez cross after another fluid attacking move.
Despite missing Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez, Argentina dominated the second half, missing several opportunities before substitute Giuliano Simeone sealed the rout in the 71st minute. The emphatic win handed Brazil their worst defeat in World Cup qualifying history.
Argentina lead the South American standings with 31 points from 14 matches, 16 points clear of seventh-placed Venezuela, who occupy the international playoff spot. Brazil, now fourth with 21 points, face mounting uncertainty as they struggle to find form under Dorival Jr.
