In a highly anticipated showdown, Brazil is set to face Argentina in the 14th round of the World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 21h local time, held at the Monumental de Núñez stadium in Buenos Aires. This clash represents not only a fierce rivalry but also a critical point in the qualifiers as both teams battle for a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
What makes this match particularly notable is that it marks the first face-off in two decades without either Neymar or Lionel Messi, whose absences have shifted the dynamics significantly. The last time the two iconic footballers faced each other was on June 29, 2005, leaving fans eager to see how different this encounter would be without their legendary capabilities on the pitch.
Tensions surrounding the match escalated when Brazil’s winger Raphinha stirred the pot with a bold declaration in an interview with Romário TV, where he stated, "Porrada neles. Sem dúvida. Porrada neles. No campo e fora de campo se tiver que ser," translating to a call for readiness to fight, both on and off the field. This aggressive stance sparked reactions not only among fans but also within the ranks of the respective teams.
In response to Raphinha's comments, Argentina's head coach, Lionel Scaloni, took a contrasting approach. He emphasized the camaraderie that exists between players from both nations, reminding everyone that there are mutual friendships formed outside the hostile atmosphere typical of such matches. "É um jogo de futebol. São 90 minutos dentro de campo que cada um quer ganhar e depois do jogo todos temos um conhecido, um amigo brasileiro," Scaloni remarked, reflecting a desire for respect between the teams despite the rivalry.
Historically, this match-up has favored Brazil, with the Selecao holding 43 victories against Argentina's 40 in their 109 total clashes. Brazil has scored 165 goals compared to Argentina's 160, while 26 games finished in a draw. However, Brazil has not triumphed over Argentina since the Copa América semi-final in 2019, where they emerged victorious with a score of 2-0. Furthermore, Brazil has been unable to defeat Argentina on its soil in World Cup qualifiers for over 16 years, with the last win occurring in 2009.
The stakes are high for both teams as Argentina currently leads the standings with 28 points and can clinch a spot in the World Cup with just a draw. Brazil, holding the third position with 21 points, is in dire need of a win to boost their qualification chances and ease the pressure on coach Dorival Junior.
Likely starting lineups have been a topic of much discussion leading up to the match. Brazil's lineup is expected to feature Bento; Wesley, Marquinhos, Murillo, and Guilherme Arana; André, Joelinton, and Raphinha; with Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior, and Matheus Cunha leading the attack. On the opposing side, Argentina will likely start with Dibu Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cuti Romero, Otamendi, and Tagliafico; Paredes, Enzo Fernández, and Mac Allister; and up front, they may deploy Simeone, Almada, and Julián Álvarez.
In a broader context, this match has drawn political undertones, particularly with remarks from former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro. He noted the parallels between the football match and his ongoing legal battles, stating, "Brasil e Argentina em campo hoje às 21h no Monumental de Núñez. Vamos torcer pelos nossos garotos voltarem com a vitória. Já no meu caso, o juiz apita contra antes mesmo do jogo começar..." highlighting how he feels unfairly judged before he even gets the chance to defend himself. His comments have fueled discussions on social media and among political circles, drawing attention to how sports often intertwine with national sentiments and individual narratives.
Fans on both sides are poised not just for a football match, but for an emotional spectacle that embodies decades of rivalry and pride. As spectators tune in to witness a game broadcasted live on Globo and SporTV, the excitement surrounding the classic encounter is palpable.
With all these dynamics at play, the clash between Brazil and Argentina promises not only to be a pivotal moment in the qualifiers but also a memorable chapter in the storied history of football.
