The Albiceleste will defend their title as reigning world champions in the final part of the World Cup.
Argentina's national team defeated Brazil in a home match of the 14th round of the 2026 World Cup qualification. The match in Buenos Aires ended with a score of 4:1 .
Already in the 4th minute, Julian Alvarez put the home team ahead, and in the 12th minute, Enzo Fernades doubled the Albiceleste's advantage.
In the 26th minute, the Brazilians reduced the deficit – Matheus Cunha scored. But in the 37th minute, Alexis McAllister’s precise strike restored the Argentinians’ two-goal advantage.
In the second half, Lionel Scaloni's men scored for the fourth time – the final score of the match was set in the 71st minute by Giuliano Simeone .
It should be noted that the captain of the Argentine national team , Lionel Messi, was not included in the squad for the match due to injury.
Argentina vs Brazil Match Review
Thus, Argentina, with 31 points after 14 rounds, continues to lead the South American qualifiers and has secured its place at the 2026 World Cup ahead of schedule.
Brazil is fourth with 21 points. Six teams from South America will qualify directly for the World Cup, and one more team will play in the play-offs.
In their next 2026 World Cup qualifying matches, Argentina will play away against Chile, while the Selecao will play away against Ecuador. Both matches will take place on June 4.
Argentina is the current World Cup champion. In the 2022 World Cup final, the “Albiceleste” beat France in a penalty shootout.
The 2026 World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19 in three countries at once: the United States, Canada and Mexico. This Mundial will be the first in which 48 teams will participate. From 1998 to 2022, the World Cup used a 32-team format.
Earlier it was reported that analysts assessed the chances of the Ukrainian national team in the selection for the 2026 World Cup.