Buenos Aires: Holders Argentina secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dominant 4-1 victory over Brazil in Tuesday’s Superclásico at the Estadio Monumental.
Even before kick-off, Lionel Scaloni’s men had already booked their ticket to the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, following Bolivia’s goalless draw with Uruguay. The result ensured Argentina a top-six finish in the South American qualifiers, where six teams earn direct berths.
Julian Alvarez set the tone for the hosts in the fourth minute, opening the scoring to ignite celebrations among the home spectators. Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Giuliano Simeone added to the tally, further cementing Argentina’s dominance over their arch-rivals.
Brazil, who last defeated Argentina in November 2016, managed to pull one back through Matheus Cunha midway through the first half, but it proved to be a mere consolation as the Selecao struggled to match the intensity of the reigning world champions.
Apart from the three co-hosts of the expanded 48-team tournament, Argentina became the fourth team to secure qualification for the 2026 edition after Japan, New Zealand, and Iran. The victory also marked Argentina’s fourth win in their last five encounters against Brazil.
Brazil, currently fourth in the standings on goal difference, will look to bounce back when they travel to face second-placed Ecuador in their next qualifier in June.
