The South American derby par excellence will be replayed on Tuesday at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, where Argentina and Brazil will meet on matchday 14 of the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. The Albiceleste, leaders in the qualifiers, will be looking to secure their place at the next World Cup 2026, while the Canarinha need to reaffirm their growth after a shaky start to the competition.
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Team News
Argentina
Lionel Scaloni's side arrive with confidence soaring after a 1-0 win over Uruguay in Montevideo, which puts them within touching distance of qualification. The absence of Lionel Messi due to an adductor injury has forced the coach to find alternative solutions in attack, with Thiago Almada responding with a stunning goal against La Celeste.
With 28 points from 13 games (9 wins, 1 draw, and 3 defeats), Argentina has established itself as the most solid team on the continent, conceding just 7 goals. They are also in excellent form against their historic rivals: they have not lost to Brazil in the last four meetings (3 wins and 1 draw), including the memorable final of the Copa America 2021 and the victory at the Maracana in the same qualifiers in 2023.
The statistics are even more favourable at home: Argentina has won 7 of its last 8 home games in the qualifiers and kept a clean sheet in 11 of its previous 12 matches.
In addition to Messi, Lautaro Martinez, and Paulo Dybala's injury-related absences, Nico Gonzalez, who was sent off against Uruguay, has been suspended. However, as a precaution, Scaloni could bring back Rodrigo De Paul, who was rested in Montevideo. His presence would be key in the Albiceleste midfield.
Despite a shaky start to qualifying, Brazil has gotten back on track in recent matches. After just one win in their first six games, the Selecao have rebounded to go five unbeaten, including an agonising win over Colombia last Thursday when Vinicius Jr scored in the 99th minute.
Dorival Junior's side arrived in Buenos Aires in third place with 21 points and is now assured of a direct spot in the World Cup 2026. However, their away form has been inconsistent: they have won just one game in their last five away games in qualifying (1 win, 1 draw, 3 defeats), making it a significant challenge to try to beat Argentina in their fortress.
Added to this complicated situation are the absences of key players such as Neymar Jr and Alisson through injury and the suspensions of Gabriel Magalhães and Bruno Guimarães. Brazil's big bet will be on their young talent, with Vinicius Junior as their attacking star and Bento in goal in place of the injured Alisson.
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Possible starting line-up
Argentina: Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, Nicolás Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister; Giuliano Simeone, Enzo Fernández, Thiago Almada; Julián Álvarez.
Brazil: Bento; Vanderson, Marquinhos, Leo Ortiz, Guilherme Arana; Joelinton, Andre; Rodrygo, Raphinha, Vinicius Junior; Pedro.
Key players
The young playmaker from Olympique Lyon has burst onto the scene in this latest call-up by Lionel Scaloni. His ability to unbalance in one-on-one situations, sharp vision, and punch make him a player to be reckoned with. Almada has shown the personality to take on responsibilities in Messi's absence, excelling in moments of high tension.
His goal against Uruguay demonstrated his technical quality and his coolness to appear at key moments. Against Brazil, he will have the opportunity to establish himself as a leader within the team. In addition to his ability on the ball, Almada stands out for his dynamism and versatility in attacking, moving between lines and linking up with his teammates with great precision.
His ability to read the game and create danger in tight spaces makes him a key asset for Argentina. In a game as tight as the South American derby, his creativity and mental quickness can make the difference. If he can link up with Enzo Fernandez and Julian Alvarez, Argentina will have a better chance of breaking down the Brazilian defence. His growth as a player in recent months positions him as one of the most promising talents on the continent.
The FC Barcelona winger is one of Brazil's primary attacking weapons. His pace, dribbling and accurate crosses make him a key player in creating danger on the flanks.
Unlike other more vertical wingers, Raphinha combines his dribbling ability with great vision, which allows him to assist his team-makes teammates with precise passes. His shot-stopping is another determining factor, as he can make a difference both at set-pieces and mid-range strikes. Against Argentina, his duel with Tagliafico will be crucial for the development of the match.
His mobility and ability to link up with Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior can create an imbalance in the Albiceleste defence. In addition, his defensive work brings a plus to the team, being a player committed to recovering the ball.
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Date, kick-off time, and where to watch
Argentina vs Brazil is scheduled to kick off at 8 p.m EST, Sunday, Tuesday 25, 2025.
TV viewers in the USA can watch the game live the relevant US Networks like ESPN +.
