Argentina Pips Brazil In World Cup Qualifier Amid Chaos At Maracana Stadium
The reigning World Cup champions handed Brazil their first-ever home defeat in World Cup qualifiers.
Numerous spectators arrived at the Maracana Stadium to witness what could be Lionel Messi's final match in Brazil during a World Cup qualifying superclasico against the hosts. However, the game took an unexpected turn with Nicolas Otamendi netting the sole goal in Argentina's 1-0 victory following a fan altercation that caused a delay in kick-off.
The reigning World Cup champions handed Brazil their first-ever home defeat in World Cup qualifiers, extending Brazil's streak of three consecutive losses under the management of new coach Fernando Diniz.
Amid a mix of jeers and applause from Brazilian fans, Messi exited the field in the 78th minute. The pre-match atmosphere was charged, with children donning Barcelona and Inter Miami shirts in homage to the superstar. Despite the intense anticipation, Messi failed to breach one of his last barriers in football – scoring against Brazil in a World Cup qualifier. Argentina's triumph not only secured their position atop the South American qualifying standings but also echoed their previous victory at Rio de Janeiro's iconic stadium during the Copa America.
The match was marred by a violent altercation between fans before kick-off, resulting in a 27-minute delay and Argentina, under Messi's leadership, retreating to the locker rooms for 22 minutes. The aftermath saw at least one fan leaving the stadium with a head injury, leading to the arrest of eight individuals by Rio police.
The tension from the pre-match incident affected the match initially, reflected by early fouls against Brazil. However, the game gradually settled, preventing direct confrontations. Despite Brazil's missed opportunities, including a close-range save by Argentina's goalkeeper and a goal-line clearance by Cristian Romero, Otamendi's 63rd-minute header from a corner kick secured Argentina's victory.
Teenager Endrick's introduction failed to make a significant impact for Brazil, while Joelinton's late dismissal further dampened Brazil's prospects. The match concluded with Brazil fans chanting "ole" for every Argentine touch, while visiting supporters celebrated their team's triumph.
Argentina leads the South American qualifying competition with 15 points from six matches, followed closely by Uruguay and Colombia. In contrast, Brazil might conclude the year in sixth place with seven points. The qualification system for the 2026 World Cup will offer direct entry for the top six South American teams, with a chance for the seventh-placed team to secure a berth via an Intercontinental playoff.
The forthcoming Copa America edition in the United States will precede the seventh and eighth rounds of South American qualifying, scheduled for September.
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