Argentina vs Brazil: The much-awaited CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers showdown between Argentina and Brazil is scheduled for Tuesday (March 25) at Estadio Mas Monumental in Buenos Aires.
The two South American football giants will renew their legendary rivalry with crucial qualification points at stake as they aim to confirm their spots in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This match marks the 115th official encounter between these historic teams.

The Argentina-Brazil football rivalry is one of the most intense in the sport’s history. To date, the teams have clashed 114 times across all competitions. Brazil holds a slight advantage with 46 victories, while Argentina has recorded 42 wins, and 26 matches have ended in stalemates.
Argentina: 42
Brazil: 46
Draws: 26
Pele (Brazil): 8 goals
Emilio Baldonedo (Argentina): 7 goals
Leonidas (Brazil): 7 goals
Herminio Masantonio (Argentina): 6 goals
Norberto Mendez (Argentina): 5 goals
Argentina leads the South American qualifying table with 28 points, having secured nine wins, one draw, and three losses. Their recent 1-0 triumph over Uruguay, thanks to a stunning strike from Thiago Almada, snapped a three-game winless run in away qualifiers. A draw against Brazil would mathematically secure Argentina’s World Cup qualification.
Brazil currently sits in third place with 21 points. Despite a slow start in their qualification campaign, they have bounced back with a five-game unbeaten streak, including a thrilling 2-1 victory over Colombia, sealed by Vinicius Junior’s goal in the 99th minute.
Argentina will be without captain Lionel Messi due to an adductor injury. Additionally, forwards Lautaro Martínez and Paulo Dybala are sidelined, while Nico González is unavailable after receiving a red card against Uruguay. However, Rodrigo De Paul, who was rested in the last fixture, is expected to return to the starting lineup. In defence, Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez will play a crucial role in dealing with Brazil’s potent attack.
Brazil hopes to recover from recent struggles in the qualifiers despite multiple injury setbacks. Star forward Neymar and goalkeeper Ederson remain sidelined. Additionally, Alisson Becker and Gerson withdrew due to injuries sustained against Colombia. Bento is expected to start in goal, with Andre likely stepping in for Gerson in midfield. Defender Gabriel Magalhaes and midfielder Bruno Guimaraes are suspended, paving the way for Leo Ortiz and Joelinton to feature. Brazil’s attack will be led by Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, while Marquinhos will marshal the defence to contain Argentina’s offensive threats.
With Messi and Neymar absent, the spotlight shifts to the younger generation. Thiago Almada and Julian Alvarez will spearhead Argentina’s attack, while Brazil will rely on Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, and Rodrygo for creativity. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Enzo Fernandez for Argentina and Lucas Paqueta for Brazil expected to dictate play.
Argentina (4-3-3):Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Nicolas Tagliafico; Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez; Giuliano Simeone, Julian Alvarez, Thiago Almada.
Brazil (4-2-3-1): Bento; Wesley, Marquinhos, Murillo, Guilherme Arana; Andre, Joelinton; Rodrygo, Raphinha, Vinicius Junior; Matheus Cunha
With both sides possessing immense quality, this contest is expected to be fiercely competitive. Argentina’s home advantage and experience might give them a slight edge, though Brazil’s attacking firepower ensures an exciting battle.
Argentina vs Brazil Predicted Score: Argentina 2:1 Brazil