Without legends Lionel Messi and Neymar, the fierce rivalry between Argentina and Brazil continues as both teams have confirmed their lineups for the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup qualifier.
With their spot in the 2026 World Cup secured, Argentina prepares to host Brazil in the next round of CONMEBOL qualifiers. Coaches Lionel Scaloni and Dorival Junior aim to lead their respective squads to victory in this critical showdown, even in the absence of both Lionel Messi and Neymar.
Argentina clinched their 2026 World Cup qualification ahead of this crucial match after Bolivia failed to secure a win against Uruguay. Consequently, La Albiceleste cannot fall to the seventh position that would lead to the playoffs, securing their place five games before the conclusion of the qualifiers.
Before the international break, the excitement surrounding this match heavily focused on the expected Messi-Neymar showdown. However, both soccer icons are sidelined due to last-minute injuries. Despite their absence, the anticipation for an entertaining game remains high.
This encounter marks the first meeting between coaches Scaloni and Dorival Junior, who took charge in January 2024 but has yet to face Argentina. With both teams coming off victories—Argentina’s win over Uruguay and Brazil’s triumph against Colombia—Scaloni shared his expectations for the game:
“We expect a match similar to the one against Uruguay. Brazil has the potential to dominate you because it is one of the biggest national teams in the world, but we will be prepared for the phases of the game where they dominate us, and very attentive to their counterattacks when we dominate,” Scaloni stated in Monday’s press conference.
The last time Argentina defeated Brazil on home soil was in June 2005, during the qualifying campaign for the 2006 World Cup. Argentina won 3-1 that night, but since then, they have been unable to beat Brazil at home in two decades. This time, Scaloni’s side will be eager to break that long-standing streak.
Confirmed starting lineups for Argentina and Brazil
Argentina’s confirmed lineup (4-5-1): Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Thiago Almada; Julian Alvarez.
Brazil’s confirmed lineup (4-2-3-1): Bento; Wesley, Marquinhos, Murillo, Guilherme Arana; André, Joelinton, Rodrygo; Raphinha, Vinicius Junior; Matheus Cunha.
