Alvarez shines to help Argentina lead Brazil 2-0

Argentina still played well without Messi.

Even though Argentina became the first South American team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, they still did not play lightly against their opponent Brazil in the 14th round of qualifying.

The South American derby at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires was heated from the start as Argentina dominated Brazil. Lionel Scaloni's side were in high spirits after a 1-0 away win over Uruguay.

In the 6th minute, Julián Alvarez handled the ball at a high level and then shot into the Brazilian net, helping the home team take a 1-0 lead. In the 12th minute, Enzo Fernández materialized the home team's beautiful arrangement, tapping the ball into the Brazilian net.

A real shock is taking place at the Monumental stadium. Not many people expected Brazil to lose so weakly.

Despite Lionel Messi's absence due to a groin injury, coach Scaloni has helped Argentina find alternative options. If Thiago Almada shone with a beautiful goal against Uruguay, then in the match against Brazil, Alvarez and Fernández spoke up.

Chelsea star scores against Brazil.

After 13 games, Argentina have 28 points (9 wins, 1 draw, 3 losses) and are the most consistent team in the region, conceding only 7 goals. They also have a good record against Brazil, unbeaten in their last 4 meetings (3 wins, 1 draw), including the 2021 Copa America final and a win at the Maracanã in the 2023 World Cup qualifiers.

Argentina's home record is also impressive, winning seven of their last eight qualifiers and keeping clean sheets in 11 of their previous 12.

In addition to Messi, Argentina is also without Lautaro Martinez and Paulo Dybala due to injury, while Nico Gonzalez is suspended after the match against Uruguay.

Brazil had a difficult start to qualifying but have improved their form in recent matches. After only one win in their first six games, they are unbeaten in their last five, including a dramatic win over Colombia thanks to a stoppage-time goal from Vinicius Jr.

Brazil played poorly on Argentina's field.

Coach Dorival Junior's team is currently in third place with 21 points and also has a great chance of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

However, their away form has been inconsistent, winning just 1 of their last 5 away games in qualifying (1 win, 1 draw, 3 losses), making the trip to Argentina a challenging one.

In addition, Brazil also lost many key players due to injury, including Neymar Jr and goalkeeper Alisson, along with the absence of Gabriel Magalhães and Bruno Guimarães due to suspension.

Source: https://znews.vn/alvarez-toa-sang-giup-argentina-dan-brazil-2-0-post1540824.html