Sports Desk:

Brazil has gone 16 years without a victory in Argentina and hasn’t scored there in a decade.

Despite that, striker Raphinha expressed confidence ahead of Tuesday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier in Buenos Aires, vowing to find the net against the reigning champions. Speaking on a podcast with 1994 World Cup winner Romário, he even joked about “kicking them” both “on and off the pitch if necessary.” His remarks were widely reported in Argentine media.

Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, sought to downplay any tensions. “I didn’t look too much into that statement, but I heard about it. Argentina vs. Brazil is always a big match, but in the end, it’s just football,” Scaloni said. He recalled the iconic image of Lionel Messi and Neymar sitting together at the Maracanã Stadium after the 2021 Copa América final, suggesting that should be the memory everyone holds onto.

Meanwhile, Brazil defender Marquinhos added to the anticipation, asserting his team is ready to break the 16-year drought. “It’s our turn now. It has been a long time,” he said at a press conference. “It won’t be easy, but we are ready to fight. We need to be at our best physically and mentally.”

Currently leading the South American qualifiers, Argentina can secure a World Cup berth with a draw against third-placed Brazil, with four rounds still to play. The match at Monumental de Núñez Stadium will be missing key stars, including the injured Messi and Neymar, along with other sidelined players due to injuries and suspensions.

Argentina won their last encounter 1-0 at Maracanã in 2023 at the start of this qualifying cycle. Brazil sits one point ahead of Uruguay and Paraguay, with Colombia holding the sixth and final direct qualification spot.

Uruguay, currently in fourth place, will face Bolivia as they look to bounce back from Friday’s 1-0 defeat to Argentina. If Bolivia fails to secure a win, Argentina will qualify even if they lose to Brazil. Meanwhile, Colombia takes on Paraguay, Ecuador travels to face Chile, and Venezuela hosts Peru.

INJURIES AND SUSPENSIONS

Argentina will also be without Lautaro Martínez due to injury and Nico González, who is suspended. Following the 1-0 victory over Uruguay, midfielders Leandro Paredes and Giuliano Simeone, along with striker Thiago Almada—who scored the winner—are expected to start against Brazil.

Brazil, on the other hand, will be missing goalkeeper Alisson due to concussion protocols, as well as the suspended Bruno Guimarães and Gabriel Magalhães. Coach Dorival Júnior confirmed he will make six changes, including swapping target man João Pedro—who failed to score in the 2-1 win against Colombia—for Matheus Cunha.