Video: Julian Alvarez scores opening goal as Argentina wins 3-1 against Brazil in World Cup Qualifiers
Argentina hosted Brazil in a key 2026 World Cup qualifier, with the home side already qualified for the international tournament. Julian Alvarez struck early, delivering a blow to Brazil by scoring the opening goal.
Despite being without their star player, Lionel Messi, Argentina remained focused on asserting their status as one of the top contenders for the upcoming World Cup, set to take place in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Facing long-time rivals Brazil, the national team was determined to give it their all.
The play began with Rodrigo De Paul sending a long ball to Nicolas Tagliafico. The left-back headed the ball to Thiago Almada, who then played a perfect through ball to Alvarez. After a rebound from Brazilian center-back Murillo, Alvarez finished precisely, beating goalkeeper Bento to score the opening goal in the 4th minute.
Argentina quickly took control of the ball and the game, extending their lead just minutes later. In the 12th minute, Enzo Fernandez finished off a well-worked build-up, tapping in a precise cross from right-back Nahuel Molina.
These two early goals marked the first time Brazil has conceded twice so quickly in a World Cup qualifier. The last time Brazil conceded this early was in June 2005 when legends Hernan Crespo and Juan Román Riquelme scored two goals against Brazil in the 18th minute.
Brazil was able to pull one goal back after Matheus Cunha stole the ball from defender Cristian Romero and scored clinically in the 26th minute. The mistake has marked the first time Romero concedes a goal playing against Brazil, this one being his fourth match.
Despite the setback, Argentina continued to push forward and extended their lead. Fernandez delivered a precise cross after a set-piece play broke down, and Alexis Mac Allister scored Argentina’s third goal in the 37th minute.
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