In one of the most highly-anticipated CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, Argentina delivered a stunning 4-1 victory over Brazil, silencing Raphinha’s pre-match bravado.
The Barcelona forward had promised to “beat up” Argentina both on and off the pitch, but his words backfired spectacularly as the reigning world champions dominated their South American rivals at Estadio Mas Monumental.
Raphinha’s controversial remarks
In the days leading up to the match, Raphinha stirred controversy with bold declarations on ‘Romario TV,’ stating that Brazil would “beat up” Argentina and personally guaranteeing a goal. His comments did not sit well with Argentine media, who saw them as provocative. However, Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, took a composed approach, emphasizing sportsmanship and respect.
From the opening whistle, Argentina overwhelmed Brazil with intensity and precision. Julián Álvarez struck in the 4th minute, setting the tone for a relentless first half. Enzo Fernández doubled the lead just eight minutes later, capitalizing on Argentina’s dominant start.
Brazil managed to respond in the 26th minute through Matheus Cunha, who took advantage of a rare Argentine defensive lapse. However, Alexis Mac Allister restored Argentina’s two-goal cushion in the 37th minute, ensuring a comfortable halftime lead.
The second half saw Argentina maintain control, and any hopes of a Brazilian comeback were dashed when Giuliano Simeone netted Argentina’s fourth goal in the 71st minute. The final whistle confirmed one of Brazil’s heaviest defeats in World Cup qualifying history, further intensifying scrutiny on manager Dorival Jr.
Raphinha’s eggs on the face
Despite his pre-match guarantee, Raphinha failed to score and faced criticism during and after the match. Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul dismissed his remarks, emphasizing the importance of respect in football.
Raphinha’s comments would set the tone for an intense match, with bad blood overflowing between the opponents.
At one point during the match, Argentina fans were chanting “sub off Raphinha, you son of a b***h”. Enzo Fernandez also had something to get off his chest, telling the Barcelona FC star that he “talks too much” in one instance.
"Talk less" is said by Otamendi to Raphinha as they clash in the Brazil vs Argentina game…
— george (@StokeyyG2) March 26, 2025
Now this is a proper football rivalry 👏 pic.twitter.com/q2gXRmMgIq
Another clash saw Real Madrid attacker Rodrygo and Argentine midfielder Leandro Paredes exchanging bitter words.
Meanwhile, Brazil’s captain, Marquinhos, apologized to fans, calling the defeat “shameful” and stressing the urgent need for improvement. The Brazilian told Paredes that “he wasn’t good”, to which the Argentine replied “I have a World Cup and two Copa Americas, you have none! You have zero.”
No way Emi Martinez is doing this during a match vs Brazil 😭😭😭😭
— Janty (@CFC_Janty) March 26, 2025
pic.twitter.com/fRSy6MCqzy
With this emphatic victory, Argentina booked their spot in the 2026 World Cup, further cementing their dominance in South American football. Even without key stars Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez, Scaloni’s squad demonstrated remarkable cohesion and tactical superiority.
The win extended Argentina’s lead in the CONMEBOL standings to 31 points, while Brazil, now in fourth place with 21 points, faces growing concerns about their qualification campaign.
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