2026 WCQ: Argentina Without Messi Thrash Brazil 4-1 To Secure World Cup Ticket

Brazilian winger, Raphinha on Tuesday evening failed to help his country as they were thrashed 4-1 against Argentina without Lionel Messi in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Raphinha, who has been in brilliant form Barcelona this season, had during an interview with Selecao legend, Romario, made some boasted comments ahead of the game.

The former Leeds United star said that Brazil will beat Argentina silly and also tipped himself to be one of the scorers for his country.

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“We’re going to give Argentina a beating, no doubt. Am I going to score? Yes. With everything. F**k them,” Raphinha had said.

However, Raphinha’s wish didn’t come through as Argentina celebrated their 2026 World Cup qualification with a dazzling 4-1 thrashing of Brazil in Buenos Aires.

Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister and Giuliano Simeone sealed an emphatic win for the world champions, who were without their captain Lionel Messi.

Argentina was assured of their World Cup berth after Bolivia’s 0-0 draw with Uruguay earlier Tuesday.

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The win means Argentina have qualified for next year’s World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada with four games to spare.

They lead the 10-team qualifying group with 31 points from 14 games.