Brazil and Argentina both endured losses in their 2026 World Cup qualifying matches on Tuesday. For Brazil, a 1-0 defeat to Paraguay raised concerns, marking the team’s fourth loss in five qualifiers. The result leaves the Seleção in fifth place, with the top six teams automatically qualifying for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Paraguay’s Diego Gómez secured the victory in Asunción with a stunning strike, bending the ball in off the post from the edge of the box. Brazil nearly responded when Guilherme Arana’s shot was cleared off the line by Júnior Alonso, but the visitors struggled to create meaningful chances despite dominating possession with 71%. Vinícius Jr. had two opportunities in the second half, but both were saved by goalkeeper Gatito Fernández.
Since their Copa América exit earlier this year, Brazil has struggled under coach Dorival Júnior. Despite a 1-0 win against Ecuador last Friday, concerns remain. Defender Marquinhos acknowledged the challenges: “The coach is still figuring out the best way for us to play, and that’s reflected in the result. We’re lacking confidence… it’s a time of transition.”
Argentina Stumbles Against Colombia
Meanwhile, Argentina, despite a 2-1 defeat to Colombia, remains atop the standings. Colombia’s captain, James Rodríguez, played a pivotal role, assisting Yerson Mosquera’s header and scoring a second-half penalty after a foul by Nicolás Otamendi, confirmed by VAR.
Argentina’s Nicolás González had equalized early in the second half, but Rodríguez’s penalty put Colombia back in front. Argentina was without Lionel Messi, who is recovering from an ankle injury, though coach Lionel Scaloni hopes to have him back for the October qualifiers.
With six wins in eight matches, Argentina maintains its lead in the standings, two points ahead of Colombia, who remain unbeaten with four wins and four draws.
