Overview
Since the surprise defeat against Paraguay, the Brazilian team is making a strong comeback with a 5-match unbeaten streak, including 3 wins. This is a good warm-up for Selecao before the trip to Los Los Los Angidos by arch-rivals Argentina.
Meanwhile, Argentina is in very good form at home. Coach Lionel Scaloni's team won all 12 of their most recent home matches in all competitions. The last time Argentina lost at home was against Uruguay in November 2023. However, in the most recent match, the reigning World Cup champions paid their debt with a 1-0 away victory despite the absence of captain Lionel Messi.
Brazil have won 19, lost 10 and drawn 8 of their last 37 matches against Argentina. However, Argentina have won 3 and drawn 1 of their last 4 meetings, including a 1-0 away win in the first leg in November 2023.
In case Messi and Martinez are absent, Julian Alvarez will be the leader of Argentina's attack. The Atletico Madrid striker has scored in 2 of his last 3 home matches in the World Cup qualifiers. Almada and Giuliano Simeone will also be other notable names for the home team.
For Brazil, Vinicius Junior scored in the match against Colombia and will be the one to receive the most expectations. With the support of Rodrygo and Raphinha, Brazil's attack will also pose a big threat.
Personnel situation
Argentina will likely be without Martinez and Messi, both of whom are still sidelined through injury. Nicolas Gonzalez is suspended after receiving a red card against Uruguay, while Alvarez is expected to lead the attack once again.
On the other side of the front line, goalkeeper Alisson is likely to be absent after being suspected of having a concussion. Gabriel and Bruno Guimaraes are suspended due to accumulating enough yellow cards, while it is still unknown whether Raphinha will play or not. The reason is that Raphinha's home club Barcelona will face Osasuna on March 28.
Expected lineup:
Argentina: Martinez, Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico, Mac Allister, De Paul, Simeone, Fernandez, Almada, Alvarez.
Brazil: Bento, Wesley, Murillo, Marquinhos, Vanderson, Gerson, Andre, Joelinton, Cunha, Rodrygo, Vinicius.
The match between Argentina and Brazil takes place at 7:00 a.m. on March 26 (Vietnam time).
