The Argentina national team won a narrow 0-1 victory against Brazil on matchday 6 of the CONMEBOL zone 2026 World Cup qualifiers, at the Maracana Stadium on Wednesday (22/11). The win has important meaning for La Albiceleste.
Argentina looked at the match against Brazil with unsteady. Previously, Argentina lost to Uruguay by two goals without reply.
The tension of the match against Brazil was also hot. Moreover, there was a riot between Argentine supporters and the police so the match was postponed for several minutes.
In a tight match, Argentina emerged victorious. The 2022 World Cup winners' only goal was created by Nicolas Otamendi in the 63rd minute. The defender scored with a header after capitalizing on a corner.
Meanwhile, none of the hosts' eight attempts came to fruition. Argentina's defense played solidly.
Lionel Messi emphasized that the victory against Brazil had more meaning. In fact, he felt the match this time was like the Copa America final
"This team continues to achieve historic things. Although this is not the most important, it is something pleasant," Lionel Messi said after the match on Argentina's social media.
"We needed this win after the defeat against Uruguay," continued the captain.
"We knew it would be a tough game, similar to the Copa America final. Brazil pressed a lot, they kept looking for us and it was difficult for us to defend for long. This match was decided by the details," explained La Pulga.
With this result, Argentina are at the top after winning 15 points from six matches. Meanwhile, Brazil are stranded in sixth place with seven points.