Argentina wins ticket to World Cup 2026, Alvarez mocks Brazilian player

(Dan Tri) - Striker Julian Alvarez affirmed that Argentina taught Brazilian players a lesson in humility when defeating the Samba dancers 4-1 in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on the morning of March 26.

For the first time in history, Brazil conceded four goals in a World Cup qualifying match. Goals from Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Mac Allister and Giuliano Simeone helped Lionel Scaloni's team to a historic victory and a ticket to the 2026 World Cup finals.

Argentina giành vé dự World Cup 2026, Alvarez mỉa mai cầu thủ Brazil - 1 — Alvarez was rated the best player in Argentina's 4-1 victory over Brazil (Photo: Getty).

"Brazil's players talked a lot before the match but that only made their defeat worse. Argentina were the better team, we taught them a lesson in humility, came on the pitch, played our way and had an excellent match. Only we really danced in this match," Alvarez said after the match.

Ahead of the match, striker Raphinha, the most impressive star in the Brazilian squad, declared that he would score against Argentina and defeat the reigning World Cup champions, whether on or off the field. This somewhat defiant statement quickly became the center of attention.

However, in the match at Estadio Monumental, Argentina dominated Brazil with 56% ball possession in 90 minutes, launched 12 shots (3 times more than Brazil), of which 7 were on target and brought 4 goals. The home team had 7 shots, all of which were made in the Brazilian penalty area, while the "Selecao" had 0.

"The coaching staff always told us to play as usual, stay calm and contribute to the team. We started the game confidently but still cautiously. My opening goal made the game easier for Argentina. It was a great match for the whole team. It's great to win 4-1 against Brazil and officially qualify for the World Cup," said Alvarez.

In this match, Raphinha's biggest mark was probably the scuffle with the Argentine player. In which, Paredes was one of the first players to rush towards Raphinha. During the match, both sides also had many fierce moments, especially in the middle of the field.

Brazil coach Dorival Junior also admitted that his team deserved this defeat: "I take full responsibility for this defeat. Argentina were superior to us in every aspect.

"It was a really tough game and we were overwhelmed by the surprises that happened at the beginning of the game. It's a really disappointing result and the whole team is very upset now. I know the quality of the opponents. But in reality, I still expected Brazil to react a little differently on the pitch."

Argentina giành vé dự World Cup 2026, Alvarez mỉa mai cầu thủ Brazil - 2 — Coach Dorival Junior took responsibility for the 1-4 loss to Argentina at home (Photo: Getty).

Argentina completely dominated Brazil, Alvarez's opening goal in the fourth minute disrupted the visitors' plans. Coach Lionel Scaloni revealed that it was the opening goal that left Brazil's formation exposed for his team to exploit.

"It was a good game and my players played together. It's difficult to put pressure on such a technical team. I think the early goal brought the Brazilians down a bit and they opened up more space.

Regarding Raphinha's actions on the pitch, it is nothing to say because I know he was only acting to protect his country. I am absolutely sure that he did not intend to hurt anyone," said coach Lionel Scaloni.

A 4-1 win over Brazil helped Argentina maintain its top spot in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in South America. Meanwhile, Brazil dropped to fourth place and is still at risk of having to play a play-off.