2026 WCQ: Argentina thrash Brazil 4-1 in historic qualifier

Brazil suffered a historic 4-1 defeat against Argentina in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier early Wednesday morning, marking their heaviest loss in World Cup qualifying history.

Playing at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, the world champions dominated from the start, taking the lead in the 4th minute through Julián Álvarez.

The former Manchester City forward combined with Thiago Almada before slotting past goalkeeper Bento.

Argentina doubled their lead in the 12th minute when Enzo Fernández finished off a well-worked move, converting Nahuel Molina’s cross at the far post.

Brazil briefly responded in the 26th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error by Cristian Romero, which allowed Matheus Cunha to pull one back.

However, Argentina restored their two-goal advantage in the 37th minute through Alexis Mac Allister, who finished off a Fernández assist.

Substitute Giuliano Simeone completed the rout in the 71st minute, sealing a dominant win for Lionel Scaloni’s side.

Reacting to the defeat, Brazil coach Dorival Júnior admitted his tactical plan failed.

“Our plan for today’s match didn’t work from the first minute. I have to recognize what happened, how our rival outplayed us, and they deservedly got the victory,” he said.

Brazil captain Marquinhos emphasized that the team, not just the coach, must take responsibility for the poor performance.

“All of us can do better than this. It isn’t only about Dorival. We need to have our heads in the right place,” he stated.

With this victory, Argentina remain top of the South American standings with 31 points, having already secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Brazil sit fourth with 21 points, facing growing pressure to improve in their remaining qualifiers.