Picture Credit: X
Date: 26 March 2025
Time: 5:30 am IST
Venue: Estadio Monumental, Bueno Aires
Preview:
A lot is at stake as Argentina and Brazil go head to head in the latest FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match. A draw or win for Argentina will mean a confirmed spot in the upcoming World Cup, while a win for Brazil would keep them in contention for one of the spots at the upcoming World Cup. Argentina are leading the CONMEBOL standings with 28 points from 13 matches (9 wins, 1 draw, 3 losses), boasting a goal difference of +15. On the other hand, Brazil are in third place with 21 points from 13 matches (6 wins, 3 draws, 4 losses), with a goal difference of +7.
Team news:
Argentina:
Argentina will be without their iconic captain Lionel Messi, who is sidelined due to an adductor injury sustained while playing for Inter Miami. Additionally, forward Nicolás González is suspended following a red card in the previous match against Uruguay.
Brazil:
Brazil also faces significant absences, including star forward Neymar, who withdrew from the squad due to an injury. Goalkeeper Alisson and midfielder Gerson were injured in the recent win over Colombia, while defender Gabriel and midfielder Bruno Guimaraes were suspended for yellow card accumulation.
Head-to-Head:
In their last four encounters, Argentina remain unbeaten against Brazil, with three wins and one draw. The most recent meeting saw Argentina win 1-0 at the Maracana Stadium in November 2023.
Predicted lineups:
Argentina (4-2-3-1): Martínez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico; De Paul, Mac Allister; Simeone, Fernández, Almada; Álvarez.
Brazil (4-2-3-1): Bento; Wesley, Marquinhos, Murillo, Guilherme Arana; André, Joelinton; Raphinha, Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior; Matheus Cunha.
Prediction:
Given Argentina's strong home form and Brazil's injury concerns, a narrow victory for Argentina seems possible. A 2-1 win for the hosts is a reasonable expectation.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the author’s point of view. They neither reflect the opinion of SportsTiger nor advise anyone to make any prediction based on this. SportsTiger does not assume any responsibility and liability for the same.
