Lionel Messi shocked as police strike Argentina fans with batons during World Cup qualifier against Brazil. Watch the video.

The intense rivalry and historic significance of the match between Argentina and Brazil adds even more value to the outcome of the game. The delay and disturbances before kick-off, as well as the heated exchanges between players on the field, highlight the emotional intensity and passion surrounding this South American football clash. The red card for Joelinton and the tough tackles also demonstrate the physicality and competitiveness of the game. Argentina’s victory, their first in a World Cup qualifier on Brazilian soil, adds to the historical significance of the result. Overall, the match provides insight into the intense and dramatic nature of football rivalries and the high stakes involved in World Cup qualifying matches.
Argentina emerged as victors in a closely contested World Cup qualifier against their rivals Brazil, securing a 1-0 win at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro. The match, scheduled to commence at 9:30 pm local time (00:30 GMT Wednesday), was delayed by approximately 30 minutes due to altercations between supporters of both teams within the stadium.

Disruptions in the stands prompted Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to confront a Brazilian police officer, wielding a baton. This led to several Argentina players attempting to intervene and restore order, with captain Lionel Messi ultimately leading his team off the pitch, declaring, “We’re not playing, we’re leaving.”

The tension between the two teams was further heightened as Brazil’s Rodrygo Goes engaged in a verbal altercation with Messi, labeling the Argentina players as “cowards.” This heated exchange culminated in three Brazil players receiving bookings and Joelinton being shown a straight red card for an off-the-ball clash with Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, while their team was trailing 0-1.

Argentina claimed the lead in the 63rd minute when defender Nicolas Otamendi headed in a goal from Giovani Lo Celso’s corner kick. Following the match, Messi explained that he had taken his team off the field in an attempt to pacify the escalating atmosphere.

This victory marked Argentina’s first win in a World Cup qualifier on Brazilian soil, while the defeat left five-time champions Brazil in sixth place with seven points from six games. Both teams entered the match following defeats against Colombia (2-1) and Uruguay (2-0) respectively.