Argentina delivered a stunning performance to crush rivals Brazil 4-1 in Buenos Aires during a CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying match.
This emphatic victory, achieved without star player Lionel Messi, marks Brazil’s heaviest defeat in World Cup qualifying history, leaving their captain Marquinhos to apologize for what he called an “embarrassing” display.
Argentina’s Julian Alvarez opened the scoring in the fourth minute, quickly followed by Enzo Fernandez to establish a 2-0 lead by the 12th minute.
Despite a brief Brazilian response from Matheus Cunha, Alexis Mac Allister restored Argentina’s two-goal cushion before halftime.
Giuliano Simeone sealed the match in the 71st minute, sparking wild celebrations from home fans at the Estadio Mâs Monumental.
Brazil struggled to contain Argentina’s dynamic attack and are now fourth in the standings, facing uncertainty about their World Cup qualification. Meanwhile, Argentina tops the table with 31 points, securing their place at next year’s finals.
Tensions boiled over during the game, with Brazilian forward Raphinha provoking Argentina players both on and off the pitch. However, Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni defended him post-match, downplaying the conflict as part of the competitive spirit.
