WC qualifiers: Arg wins against mighty Brazil

Brazil’s distinction of having never lost a home FIFA World Cup qualifier was abolished by their fiercest rivals Argentina as Lionel Scaloni’s side defeated Brazil 1-0 in the FIFA 2026 World Cup South American Qualifiers at the legendary Maracana stadium. Nicolas Otamendi’s thumping header proved the difference in an ill-tempered clash in which Joelinton was sent off. It kept Argentina in pole position and dropped the Brazil, with just one point from their last four outings, to sixth. Brazil began the match with the intention of being the owner of the ball, but the home team permanently interrupted the game with infractions and high pressure. Dangerous situations did not appear and the approaches faded quickly during the first half hour. A Raphinha free kick sent Emiliano Martinez flying for the first time in the 38th minute, although the shot went over the crossbar. With De Paul and Lo Celso as drivers, Argentina tried to break Brazil’s defensive block, but without achieving enough depth to worry Alisson. At the end of the first half, Martinelli was able to break the deadlock with a shot from the edge of the area, but Cristian Romero saved the Argentine goal on the line. Therefore, both teams went into halftime without a goal. In the second half, the match started favourably for the Brazilian team. During the first few minutes they advanced lines and had a clear action on Martinelli’s feet that Dibu Martínez managed to contain.