2026 WCQ: Raphinha Struggles As Argentina Defeat Brazil 4-1 To Secure Qualification

Brazilian winger Raphinha was unable to make an impact on Tuesday evening as Brazil suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat against Argentina in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Raphinha, who has been in impressive form for Barcelona this season, had made bold claims ahead of the match during an interview with Selecao legend Romário.

The former Leeds United star confidently predicted that Brazil would “beat Argentina silly” and even backed himself to get on the scoresheet. However, the match did not go as he had envisioned.

“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 predictions did not materialize as Argentina celebrated their 2026 World Cup qualification with a dominant 4-1 victory over Brazil in Buenos Aires.

Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Giuliano Simeone found the net in an emphatic win for the reigning world champions, who played without their captain, Lionel Messi.

Argentina had already secured their World Cup spot earlier in the day following Bolivia’s 0-0 draw with Uruguay.

The victory ensures Argentina’s place in the 2026 World Cup, set to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with four games to spare.

They now sit atop the 10-team qualifying group with 31 points from 14 matches.