Argentina vs Brazil: Tips, Odds, and Match Preview

The two South American heavyweights lock horns once again at the Estadio Mas Monumental in Buenos Aires in the upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifying game.

Argentina, with a world champion's belt around their necks and sitting top of the qualifying group with 28 points, will be looking to officially cement their place in the upcoming WC. All they need is a single point, and what better way than to take it from the archrival from across the Paraná River?

The Seleção is sitting in third with 21 points after that dramatic stoppage-time win against Colombia. Qualification is not under threat, but the allure of beating their fierce rivals after six long years will be enough to fire them up.

World Champions Pedigree

Scaloni's side plays with all the confidence of a World Cup title holder. La Albiceleste has won nine out of thirteen qualifiers with a goal difference of +15. Their latest victory was a hard-fought affair against Uruguay, which ended a three-game bad spell away from home.

It’s a different story at home. Argentina has won seven out of its last eight and kept a clean sheet in 11 of its previous 12 qualifying games. Moreover, Scaloni's side hasn't lost to Brazil since the infamous 2:0 in the 2019 Copa America semi-finals at the Mineirão, and I'm backing them to win on Tuesday.

Argentina Injury & Suspension News

The World Cup holders will be without their stalwart Lionel Messi, who picked up a groin injury for Inter Miami. Lautaro Martinez and Paulo Dybala are also sidelined, while Rodrigo De Paul was rested for the Uruguay game and is expected to start. Nico Gonzalez is suspended after seeing a straight red in that game.

A Chip on Seleção Shoulder

Brazil started the qualifying season slow, losing four of their first six matches. They have picked up form since and are currently on a five-game unbeaten streak, but Dorival Júnior's side has only one victory in their last five games away from home. Three of those five have been losses.

Brazil's last victory came with a 99-minute strike from Vinicius Junior, which saw the Seleção beat Colombia 2:1 and make a huge jump up the table. But the real test of their mettle comes on Tuesday at the ground they haven't won since 2009. Their last visit south ended in a goalless draw.

Brazil Injury & Suspension News

Brazil is facing a goalkeeper crisis with both Alisson Becker and Ederson out. As a result, Bento is all set for his third international start between the bars. Gabriel Magalhaes and Bruno Guimaraes are suspended for the game, meaning likely starts for Leo Ortiz at the back and Newcastle's Joelinton in the middle of the park.

Argentina vs Brazil Prediction

Argentina is on a four-game unbeaten run in all competitions against its old foes, and I can't see them losing on Tuesday even without Lionel Messi. If anything, I'm backing La Albiceleste to win, and Stake's odds of 2.35 look really nice.

Despite their attacking talent, both teams have been goal-shy in recent months. In fact, this matchup has been cagey over the years, and their last seven clashes ended up having two goals or less. If I were a betting man, I'd go with 1.41 at BC.GAME for under 2.5 goals.

CryptoGamba tip: Under 2.5 goals – 1.40 @BC.Game