Qualification Journey

Argentina secured their place in the 2026 World Cup before kickoff on March 25, 2025, as Bolivia’s 0-0 draw with Uruguay earlier that day mathematically guaranteed La Albiceleste’s qualification. The defending world champions then celebrated in style with a historic 4-1 victory over archrivals Brazil at the iconic Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.

The qualification campaign has been marked by dominant performances:

• Leading CONMEBOL qualifying with 31 points from 14 matches
• First South American team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup
• Unbeaten against Brazil in six years, extending their dominance
• Goals from Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Giuliano Simeone
• Qualification secured with four matches to spare

Even without the injured Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez, Argentina demonstrated their incredible depth and quality. The victory over Brazil was particularly sweet for Argentine fans, as it marked Brazil’s heaviest defeat in World Cup qualifying history and continued Argentina’s recent dominance in the rivalry.

As the reigning World Cup champions, Argentina will head to the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico with the opportunity to defend their crown. With Lionel Messi potentially playing in his sixth World Cup, this could be the final chapter in one of football’s greatest careers.