Argentina’s Paredes responds to Rodrygo’s provocation with World Cup victory claim amid Brazil clash

In a heated CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier between Argentina and Brazil, the match was already charged with controversial pre-game statements. Argentina was leading 3-1 when a fiery exchange saw Brazil’s Rodrygo provoke Argentina’s Leandro Paredes, who responded with a claim of his World Cup triumph.

The altercation began in the 39th minute when Nicolas Tagliafico tackled Raphinha, leading to a strong push from the Brazilian winger. This sparked a reaction from both teams, resulting in yellow cards for the two players involved.

However, the tension escalated when the cameras caught Rodrygo and Paredes facing off. The Real Madrid forward taunted Paredes, saying, “You are very bad.” The Argentina midfielder didn’t back down, replying, “I have one World Cup and two Copa Américas, you have zero.”

Paredes played a key role in both Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024, and was also part of the squad that triumphed in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. In contrast, Rodrygo made his Brazil debut in November 2019, missing the 2019 Copa America-winning squad, and has since struggled to secure silverware with the national team.

Paredes’ and the Argentina players’ reaction followed several provocative statements made ahead of the game. The most impactful comment came from Raphinha, who, in an interview with Romário TV, declared, “We’re going to give Argentina a beating, no doubt.”

The only public response to these remarks came from coach Lionel Scaloni, who adopted a more diplomatic approach. “It’s an Argentina-Brazil match, it’s always an important game, but it’s still just a soccer match. I remember the image after the 2021 Copa America final of Leo sitting with Neymar on the steps of Maracanã, and that is the image that should stay with all of us,” Scaloni said in a press conference.

Argentina breaks bad streak against Brazil at home

Argentina dominated from the outset, leaving little room for Brazil to recover from the deficit. The 4-1 win on home soil was a significant result, not only for the scoreline but also for breaking a long-standing negative streak.

The last time Argentina defeated Brazil at home was in June 2005, during the qualifying campaign for the 2006 World Cup. Argentina won 3-1 that night, but since then, they had been unable to beat Brazil at home. This time, Scaloni’s side ended that two-decade drought with a commanding victory.