Argentina vs Brazil prediction
Argentina
Current World Champions are paving their way to glory with remarkable consistency. Under Lionel Scaloni's guidance, they are leading the South American qualifiers with an impressive 28 points from 13 matches. Despite missing their star player, Lionel Messi, Argentina managed a hard-fought 1-0 victory against fierce rivals Uruguay, thanks to a moment of brilliance from Thiago Almada.
Argentina's offensive prowess is undeniable; they have netted more goals than any other team in the qualifiers (22 goals) while conceding the fewest (7 goals). Scoring at least once in almost every game, they went goalless in just one of their 13 matches. Such lethal attacking makes them clear favorites in their group.
However, against Brazil, Scaloni will be without his captain Lionel Messi, who is sidelined with a thigh muscle injury. Lautaro Martínez and Paulo Dybala are also absent due to injuries, adding to their selection woes. Nicolás González, who received a red card at the end of the match against Uruguay, will miss the Brazil clash as well. On the bright side, Rodrigo De Paul is expected to return, having taken additional rest to gear up for this marquee match in the international window.
Brazil
The five-time World Champions are navigating through turbulent times. Although the Brazilian squad is currently third on the leaderboard with 21 points, numerous questions linger about their form. Trailing Argentina by 7 points, their upcoming visit to Buenos Aires represents an excellent opportunity to close that gap.
In their last match, the "Seleção" narrowly edged out Colombia 2-1, with Vinícius Júnior delivering a stunning late-game winner. Raphinha also made his mark, opening the scoring from the penalty spot. This victory was Brazil's first after back-to-back 1-1 draws with Venezuela and Uruguay.
Brazil hasn't managed to defeat Argentina in their last four encounters, suffering three losses and one draw. Their last triumph over their archrivals was in the Copa América 2019 semifinals. However, there's a silver lining: Brazil has scored at least once in each of their last 5 matches and found the net in 7 of their last 9 away games, consistently testing opposition defenses.
The upcoming match won't see Brazil at full strength. Neymar is sidelined with injury, while Alisson and Gerson face fitness issues following the Colombia game. Moreover, Gabriel Magalhães and Bruno Guimarães are suspended. Dorival Júnior has announced six lineup changes from the team's win over Colombia.
Prediction
I'm convinced "Seleção" will breach the Argentinean defense once again. Despite significant personnel setbacks, Brazil boasts the attacking flair and proficiency needed to pose a threat. Vinícius Júnior is in sensational form, scoring decisive goals, while Raphinha continues to shine both at "Barcelona" and on the international stage.
Intriguingly, Brazil has netted at least once in their last 5 consecutive matches, and in 7 of their last 9 away outings. These statistics highlight their offensive capabilities, even if their overall results have been mixed at times.
The derby factor adds an unmissable edge to their rivalry. The intensity and rivalry between these teams promise a high-octane encounter, with sparks flying from start to finish. In such matchups, even the "underdogs" find extra strength, and Brazil has enough players capable of breaking down any defense.
Argentina's defensive lineup is not at its strongest, which could be advantageous for Brazil. The absence of key players leaves the hosts' defense more vulnerable than usual. Plus, playing at Monumental is always a special occasion, where tensions run high, and defensive lapses become more frequent.
Therefore, even if Argentina emerges victorious or holds Brazil to a draw, I firmly believe Brazil's attacking force will find a way to score at least once against the reigning World Champions. The "Seleção" boasts immense striking potential!
