Both Brazil and Argentina have stumbled in the World Cup qualifiers
Salekin
Editor & Writer
Both Brazil and Argentina have stumbled in the World Cup qualifiers
World football’s two superpowers, Brazil and Argentina, lost their World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday.
The defeat raises concerns for Brazil.
A 1-0 defeat against Paraguay was of particular concern for five-time World Cup winners Brazil. Because this is their fourth defeat in the last five qualifying matches, after this result they are now fifth in the points table. But being in the top six is crucial for direct play in the 2026 World Cup. The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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In a thrilling match, Paraguay secured victory with a decisive goal from Diego Gomez.
In a thrilling match, Paraguay secured victory with a decisive goal from Diego Gomez. in the match held in Asuncion. D hits the ball from the edge of the box with the outside of his left foot and curls into the post and the net.
Disappointing performance from Brazil
Brazil went close a few minutes after Gomez’s goal in the first half. But Junior Alonso cleared Guilherme Arna’s shot from the goal line. As a result, the visiting team failed to equalize immediately.
Besides, Brazil’s performance in the rest of the period was disappointing
They dominated possession (71%) but managed just three shots on target. Vinicius Jr. had two quick chances in the second half, but both of his attempts were blocked by goalkeeper Gatito Fernandez.
Questions about the coach’s strategy
Brazil’s decline under manager Dorival Jr has continued since losing to Uruguay in the quarter-finals of the Copa America earlier this year. However, a 1-0 win over Ecuador on Friday eased some of the pressure on the team.
The manager is working to determine our optimal playing style, and the outcomes mirrored this. With numerous new additions, we need to develop more self-assurance. It’s not easy to qualify, it’s a difficult time and how will we handle it? Defender Marquinhos TV quoted by Reuters “Anyway, it’s time for a change, we’re not feeling confident. We’re going to work hard, getting results on the field is the best answer.”
Argentina also stumbled near Colombia
On the other hand, Argentina is at the top of the points table despite losing 2-1 against Colombia in Barranquilla. Cafeteros’ long-time talisman captain James Rodriguez played a key role in the World Cup and Copa America champions’ victory, providing a cross for Yerson Mosquera’s close-range header and scoring a second-half penalty.
Fighting without Messi
Nicolas Gonzalez equalized Argentina at the beginning of the second half. But Nicolas Otamendi’s foul was awarded after a video assistant referee (VAR) review, allowing Rodriguez to fire the penalty into the top corner and give Colombia the lead again. Argentina has been without Lionel Messi since picking up an ankle injury in the Copa America final in July. But manager Lionel Scaloni said he expects the star forward to return for the next round of qualifiers in October.
Position in the point list
Argentina maintains a commanding lead in the World Cup qualifiers, securing victories in six out of their eight matches. They currently hold a two-point advantage over Colombia in the standings. Colombia, while yet to face defeat, has achieved four wins and four draws in their qualifying campaign.
All Image Credit To Rafael Ribeiro / CBF
Last word
This defeat is undoubtedly a big blow for both Brazil and Argentina. But there are still many matches left in the qualifiers. If both teams can learn from their mistakes and return to form, they can secure their place in the 2026 World Cup.
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