*Match preview and betting tips provided by SVB Tips
Argentina secured their place in next year’s World Cup after their 1-0 victory over Uruguay in the first match of this month’s qualifiers. The sole scorer in that match was Thiago Almada, who ended Argentina’s three-game winless streak away from home. It was Almada's third goal, as the Lyon-loaned player from Botafogo continued his good form.
The world champions, who are without Lionel Messi for this round of games, have a six-point lead over Ecuador, the next ranked team, who had three points deducted due to a federal decision. Argentina also hold a seven-point advantage over Brazil. Los Albiceleste have recorded nine wins, one draw, and three losses in the qualifiers, with 22 goals scored and only seven conceded.
Lionel Scaloni’s team will have the advantage of playing at home, where they have won seven of their last eight World Cup qualifying games. Furthermore, Argentina have kept a clean sheet in 11 of their last 12 home qualifiers.
In addition to Messi’s absence, Scaloni will also be missing Lautaro Martinez and Paulo Dybala, both injured, while Nico Gonzalez is suspended after receiving a straight red card in the match against Uruguay.
BRAZIL’S FIVE-MATCH UNBEATEN STREAK
Brazil’s national team didn’t have the ideal start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign but are still aiming to maintain their 100% record at the finals tournament. The Canarinha registered one win, one draw, and four losses in their first six qualifiers, but have bounced back to more familiar fomr as the campaign has gone on, and are now unbeaten in five consecutive games, including three victories.
Dorival Junior’s team secured their first two consecutive wins in October, against Chile and Peru, followed by two consecutive draws in November, against Venezuela and Uruguay. They won again just a few days ago with a 2-1 home victory over Colombia, thanks to goals from Raphinha and a last-gasp winner from Vinicius Junior.
Brazil have 21 points in the standings, eight more than Bolivia, who are in the play-off position. However, the Seleção have only one win in their last five away games in the qualifiers and face a tough challenge on Wednesday, especially since they haven’t beaten Argentina since the 2019 Copa America semifinals, when they won 2-0.
The visitors are missing Ederson and Neymar for the March doubleheader, as both are injured. In the previous match, they also lost Alisson Becker to a concussion injury against Colombia, along with Gerson. As a result, Bento is expected to make his third international appearance for Brazil in goal. Additionally, Gabriel Magalhães and Bruno Guimarães are suspended due to accumulating yellow cards.
Key Betting Suggestions:
- Argentina to Win: Given their formidable home record and Brazil’s recent struggles on the road, Argentina are the favourites to come out on top in this match.
- Under 2.5 Goals: Both teams have solid defences, and with key attacking players missing for Brazil, this match could be a tight, low-scoring affair.