Argentina dominates Brazil with a 4-1 victory to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup

Argentina Thrashes Brazil 4-1 to Secure 2026 World Cup Qualification

In a high-stakes clash at the Estadio Mas Monumental, Argentina delivered a commanding performance, dismantling arch-rivals Brazil 4-1 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. Their dominant display left no room for doubt as they secured their place in the tournament.

Earlier on Tuesday, a 0-0 draw between Uruguay and Bolivia had already confirmed Argentina's qualification, making them the first South American team to book a spot in the World Cup set to be hosted in North America.

Brazil, fresh off a narrow 2-1 win over Colombia on Thursday, suffered a crushing reality check against the reigning world champions. Even without key players Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez, Argentina outclassed their opponents in every aspect.

Kicking off early Wednesday morning Bangladesh time, Lionel Scaloni's men stamped their authority from the start. Julián Álvarez opened the scoring in the 4th minute, followed by Enzo Fernández doubling the lead in the 12th minute, capitalizing on Brazil’s defensive lapses. Matheus Cunha briefly revived Brazil’s hopes with a goal in the 26th minute, but Argentina responded swiftly, with Alexis Mac Allister restoring their two-goal cushion in the 37th minute.

Despite Brazil's efforts to regroup after halftime, their defensive frailties persisted. Argentina continued their relentless attacking play, and the final blow came in the 71st minute when Julián Simeone—son of Argentine football legend Diego Simeone—scored from a tight angle to seal a statement victory.

With this emphatic win, Argentina remains firmly at the top of the qualification table with 31 points from 14 matches. Meanwhile, Brazil, with just 21 points from the same number of games, faces mounting uncertainty regarding their World Cup hopes.

This resounding triumph not only highlighted the current gulf between the two South American powerhouses but also reaffirmed Argentina’s status as the team to beat on the road to the 2026 World Cup.