Without Messi and Neymar: How Argentina and Brazil will line up for 2026 World Cup qualifiers

Argentina and Brazil are set to clash in a highly anticipated World Cup qualifier at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires. With over 85,000 fans expected, the match holds significant importance for both teams. Argentina, the reigning World and Copa America champion, aims to secure early qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Brazil, seeking to consolidate its position among the top teams in the qualifiers, will also be highly motivated to win. The intense rivalry between the teams will create a highly charged atmosphere.

Brazil arrives with confidence following their last-minute victory against Colombia. Coach Dorival Júnior is expected to make six changes to the starting lineup, with Vinicius Jr. and Raphinha, supported by Savinho, leading the attack. The changes are due to injuries and tactical considerations, aiming to improve the team’s overall performance. The team will be looking to use its strong attack to achieve a victory.

Argentina, while facing its own injury challenges, such as the absence of Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez, demonstrated strong resilience and depth in their previous match against Uruguay. Coach Lionel Scaloni is planning only one change to the starting eleven, bringing in Rodrigo De Paul to bolster midfield. The relatively small number of changes indicates the coach’s confidence in his team’s overall playing style. The team has shown considerable depth and flexibility and is determined to win.

see also

Lionel Messi raises concerns for MLS game vs. Philadelphia Union after Inter Miami training

Anticipated lineups and match history

The teams last met in November 2023, with Argentina securing a 1-0 victory in Brazil. The current match will be a major test for both teams and will showcase the strength and resilience of each. The expected lineups reflect both teams’ strategic approaches:

see also

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni discusses the possibility of showing the World Cup in front of Brazil

Argentina: Martínez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico; De Paul, Paredes, Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández, Thiago Almada; Julián Álvarez. Subs: 17. Simeone, 14. Palacios, 4. Balerdi, 10. Correa, 18. Paz, 22. Castro, 1. Benítez, 12. Rulli, 2. Medina, 21. Domínguez, 6. Pezzella.

see also

Raphinha’s provocative words heat up the anticipation for Argentina vs. Brazil clash

Brazil: Bento; Wesley, Marquinhos, Murillo, Guilherme Arana; André, Joelinton; Raphinha, Vinicius Júnior, Rodrygo, Matheus Cunha. Subs: 1. Weverton, 24. Ederson, 20. Savinho, 2. Vanderson, 9. Joao Pedro, 15. Léo Ortiz, 19. Endrick, 23. Lucas Perri, 22. Estêvão, 16. Alex Sandro, Beraldo, João Gomes.