Brazil vs. Argentina: South America’s giants come to a head
Brazil and Argentina will lock horns in a highly anticipated showdown between South America’s powerhouses on Tuesday. This game would have been an epic final at this summer’s Copa America, but fans of both Brazil and Argentina, as well as neutrals, will be treated to what should be an entertaining semi-finals clash.
Hosting the Copa America has brought good luck to Brazil in the past. In fact, the Selecao have won the tournament each and every single time that they’ve hosted it (four times prior to date). Tite’s men have had their ups and downs, notably struggling to make inroads against Paraguay in the last round. In fact, the South American giants had to secure their spot at this juncture on spot-kicks after a ten-man Paraguay decided to park the bus for pretty much the rest of the game.
Brazil also failed to fire in a frustrating scoreless draw with Venezuela on matchday two, but notably, the five-time World Cup winners have yet to concede a goal so far this summer. That bodes well in their favor, especially as Argentina have not really impressed thus far.
La Albiceleste first lost to Colombia, without scoring a goal, before struggling to a one-all draw with Paraguay. A 2-0 win over Qatar was enough to help them squeak into the round of 16, where they were able to see off Peru. But despite progressing, there remain major doubts about Lionel Scaloni’s side. Lionel Messi has yet to get up and running, and his sole goal came via a penalty against Paraguay.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is under immense pressure to bring the cup home after struggling to lift the trophy in three straight finals (World Cup 2014, Copa America 2015, and the Copa America Centenario in 2016).
Whilst Brazil are missing star man Neymar, they have managed just fine in his absence and are still the heavy favorites to book their spot in the final. Although Argentina certainly are a major threat – any team is with Messi in the side – the odds are heavily stacked against them. The last four times Brazil featured in the semi’s, they made it to the final. They’re playing at home, where, as noted before, they have always won the trophy. Their defense has been outstanding since their poor showing at the World Cup last year.
In addition, Argentina haven’t beaten Brazil on the Selecao’s home turf since 1998. Brazil are unbeaten in their last four Copa America clashes with Argentina. However, the last time Argentina did beat Brazil in this competition was in 1993 – and they went on to win the title. Both teams will have most of their key players available, but Brazil could be missing Everton man Richarlison (illness), whilst both Fernandinho and Filipe Luis are struggling with injuries.
Whichever team wins this will face Chile (who are seeking to make it three wins in a row) or surprise side Peru in the finals. Will Brazil make amends for their frustrating showing at last year’s World Cup by winning the Copa America on home turf? Or will Messi end his long wait for glory with Argentina by leading La Albiceleste to victory in what could be his last major competition at senior level?
