South America's two footballing giants, Brazil and Argentina, will renew their historic rivalry on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at Nov 22, 2023 at 12.30am UK at the Estadio Jornalista Mário Filho, also known as the Maracanã, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This highly anticipated encounter will be a crucial clash in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying group, with both teams vying for top spots and automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

 

Brazil Seek to Reassert Their Dominance

Brazil, the fifth of the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying group with 7 points from five matches, enters this match with the weight of expectations on their shoulders. They have  lost two matches in the qualifiers so far. Tite's side will be looking to rediscover their attacking flair and defensive solidity to maintain their position at the top of the group.

Argentina Aim to Extend Their Unbeaten Run

Argentina, currently first in the group with 12 points from five matches, has been in impressive form in recent months. Their unbeaten run stretches back to July 2021, when they lifted the Copa America trophy. Lionel Scaloni's men will be hoping to continue their momentum and secure a victory against their arch-rivals, which would put them in a strong position to secure automatic qualification for the World Cup.

Predicted Lineups

Brazil's likely starting lineup:

Alisson; Emerson, Marquinhos, Thiago Silva, Lodi; Casemiro, Fabinho; Raphinha, Neymar, Richarlison; Jesus

Argentina's probable starting lineup:

Dibu Martínez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Acuña; Guido Rodríguez, Paredes; De Paul, Messi, Di María; Lautaro Martínez

Key Stats and Head-to-Head Record

• Brazil holds a superior historical record against Argentina, winning 104 out of 232 matches played between the two teams.

• Argentina has remained unbeaten in their last four matches against Brazil.

• Brazil has scored at least two goals in their last three matches in all competitions.

Prediction

Despite Brazil's home-court advantage and their status as the group leaders, Argentina's recent form and attacking quality make them a formidable opponent. We predict a closely contested match, with Argentina edging out Brazil 2-1.

Conclusion

The clash between Brazil and Argentina promises to be a captivating and unpredictable spectacle, with both teams vying for crucial points and bragging rights in the pursuit of World Cup qualification. The Maracanã is set to witness a thrilling encounter as these two footballing giants battle for supremacy in South American football.