Argentina Puts Four Past Brazil In World Cup Qualifier

Argentina thrashed rivals Brazil 4-1 in their South American 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday, as the visitors were comprehensively outplayed and were fortunate not to lose by more, at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

A 0-0 draw between Uruguay and Bolivia earlier on Tuesday had sealed Argentina’s spot at the 2026 World Cup, becoming the first South American team to qualify for the tournament in North America.

After edging Colombia 2-1 at home on Thursday, Brazil came crashing back to earth against the world champions, who started the thrashing with a close-range strike by Julian Alvarez four minutes after kick-off.

Alvarez took a through pass from Thiago Almada in his stride and evaded two defenders before beating the advancing goalkeeper Bento with a gentle touch to his right.

Even without the injured Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez, Argentina were miles ahead of their rivals and they did not have to wait long to extend their lead. Midfielder Enzo Fernandez made the scores 2-0 in the 12th minute after a terrific team goal.

Rodrigo de Paul, Almada and Alvarez combined before Fernandez finished off Nahuel Molina’s low cross at the far post.

Argentina were in full control and passing the ball around to chants of “Ole” from a sold-out crowd at the Monumental Stadium when Brazil pulled one back. A mistake from defender Cristian Romero gifted Matheus Cunha a goal in the 26th minute.

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However, Argentina restored its two-goal lead in the 37th minute through Alexis Mac Allister, who fired home from a Fernandez cross following another superb team move.

Argentina, who have not lost to Brazil in six years, wasted several chances to extend their lead before substitute Giuliano Simeone wrapped up the scoring in the 71st minute, handing Brazil their heaviest defeat in a World Cup qualifier.

“We humbly did our job and played a great game. We gave them a show,” Alvarez told reporters. “It was a historic result, winning by 4-1 and that makes us really proud.”

“I’m so happy for the fans, for helping the team and to see how we played an impressive game at home. It’s great to know that we are qualified for the World Cup.”

Argentina tops the South American standings with 31 points from 14 matches, while Brazil are fourth on 21 points.