Argentina defeated its biggest South American rival, Brazil, securing its spot in the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup.

On the 26th (Korean time), Argentina defeated Brazil 4-1 in a home match during the 14th round of World Cup South American qualifiers held at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.

With this victory, Argentina recorded 10 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses (31 points), maintaining its lead in the South American qualifiers. Even if they lose all four remaining matches, they have secured at least 6th place to guarantee direct qualification.

In the South American qualifiers, the top six countries qualify directly for the World Cup, while the 7th place team enters an intercontinental playoff.

Argentina will participate in its 14th consecutive World Cup since the 1974 West Germany World Cup. This marks its 19th overall World Cup qualification. They were the first among South American countries to secure a spot, and, globally, they are the fourth after Japan, New Zealand, and Iran to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

The match took place without Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez (both Argentina). However, Argentina took the lead with a goal from Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid) in the 4th minute and a follow-up goal from Nahuel Molina (Atletico Madrid) in the 12th minute. They conceded a goal to Mateus Cunha (Wolverhampton) in the 26th minute but extended their lead with a goal from Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool) in the 37th minute.

In the 26th minute of the second half, a sealing goal from Giuliano Simeone (Atletico Madrid) completed Argentina's 4-1 victory.

Coach Scaloni noted, "We were able to contain Brazil's strength. Playing as a team was the only way to win."

Meanwhile, Brazil suffered a shocking defeat, leaving it in an unstable position in the qualification race.

Brazil is holding on to 4th place in the South American qualifiers with 6 wins, 3 draws, and 5 losses (21 points), but its point difference with 7th place Venezuela (15 points) is only 6 points. In the last 5 matches, they have managed only 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss.

Brazil's coach Dorival Junior said, "It is a difficult situation right now, but we will definitely find a breakthrough."

[OSEN]