This Tuesday night, the footballing world will turn its eyes to El Monumental as Argentina hosts Brazil in one of the most highly anticipated World Cup qualifiers of the 2026 cycle. With a 1-0 victory already in the bag from the first leg, thanks to Otamendi’s crucial strike, the reigning world champions are looking to continue their dominance.
Argentina vs. Brazil: The Ultimate World Cup Qualifier Showdown – Match Preview and Betting Suggestion
Argentina secured their place in next year’s World Cup after their 1-0 victory over Uruguay in the first match of this month’s qualifiers. The sole scorer in that match against Darwin Nunez’s team was Thiago Almada, who ended Argentina’s three-game winless streak away from home. It was Almada’s third goal, as the Lyon-loaned player from Botafogo continued his good form.
The world champions, who are without Lionel Messi for this campaign, have a six-point lead over Ecuador, the next ranked team, who had three points deducted due to a federal decision. Argentina also holds a seven-point advantage over Brazil. Los Albiceleste have recorded nine wins, one draw, and three losses in the qualifiers, with 22 goals scored and only seven conceded.
ARGENTINA HAS WON THREE OF THE LAST FIVE DIRECT ENCOUNTERS
Lionel Scaloni’s team will try to extend their unbeaten streak against their great rivals Brazil to four official matches, with the advantage of playing at home, where they have won seven of their last eight World Cup qualifying games. Furthermore, Argentina has kept a clean sheet in 11 of their last 12 home qualifiers.
In addition to Messi’s absence, Scaloni will also be missing Lautaro Martinez and Paulo Dybala, both injured, while Nico Gonzalez is suspended after receiving a straight red card in the match against Uruguay.
BRAZIL’S FIVE-MATCH UNBEATEN STREAK
Brazil’s national team didn’t have the ideal start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign but is still aiming for a 100% record at the final tournament, which they hope to reclaim. The Canarinha have registered one win, one draw, and four losses in their first six qualifiers but have strengthened their squad as the campaign has gone on. They now have an unbeaten streak of five consecutive games, including three victories.
Dorival Junior’s team secured their first two consecutive wins in October, against Chile and Peru, followed by two consecutive draws in November, against Venezuela and Uruguay. They won again just a few days ago in a 2-1 home victory over Colombia, thanks to goals from Raphinha and Vinicius Junior.
Argentina vs Brazil – Situation is The Standings :
Brazil has 21 points in the standings, eight more than Bolivia, who are in the playoff position. However, the Seleção has only one win in their last five away games in the qualifiers and faces a tough challenge on Wednesday, especially since they haven’t beaten Argentina since the 2019 Copa America semifinals when they won 2-0.
The visitors will be missing Ederson and Neymar for the March doubleheader, as both are injured. In the previous match, they also lost Alisson Becker to injury against Colombia, along with Gerson. As a result, Bento is expected to make his third international appearance for Brazil in goal. Additionally, Gabriel Magalhães and Bruno Guimarães are suspended due to accumulating yellow cards.
Argentina vs Brazil – Betting Suggestions:
- Argentina to Win: Given their formidable home record and Brazil’s recent struggles on the road, Argentina are the favorites to come out on top in this match.
- Under 2.5 Goals: Both teams have solid defenses, and with key attacking players missing for Brazil, this match could be a tight, low-scoring affair.
