The fierce rivalry between Brazil and Argentina will reach its peak when the world champions, led by Lionel Messi, face the struggling hosts in an exciting match in the South American World Cup qualifiers in Rio de Janeiro today, Tuesday. Brazil, five-time World Cup champions, will rely on their fans in the fully packed Maracanã Stadium to give them an extra boost to recover after losing two consecutive matches in the qualifiers for the first time in their history.
The Brazilian team is suffering from injuries to key players like Neymar and Vinicius Junior, so interim coach Fernando Deniz must depend on a young lineup against Argentina. However, he assures that Brazil's identity will remain intact even against a great player like Messi. Deniz said in a press conference on Monday: "Surely you cannot not worry about a player of his stature. But we have to play our way and try to contain all the creative abilities he has. Clearly dealing with Messi is different and you should be concerned. It's impossible not to worry about a player with his status and decision-making authority."
Deniz mentioned that he expects an amazing but heated atmosphere in Maracanã Stadium, where fans are looking forward to Brazil's revenge for their loss in the Copa America final against Argentina two years ago. Brazil has not won in the last three matches, dropping to fifth place in the South American qualifiers with seven points from five matches after losing 2-1 to Colombia last Thursday. The team is under immense pressure as they prepare to face their old rivals Argentina, who lead the qualifiers with 12 points.
Deniz added: "I hope we perform well and that the fans can stand alongside the team to create a wonderful atmosphere. We are ready to face a team that, if it's not the best in the world, is one of the best. They have been that way for a while, not just because they won the World Cup. They have players in major domestic tournaments who are used to the spotlight. And then there's Messi. It's a team that has been playing well for a long time, circulating victories, and has maintained its core squad. We are aware of that and will prepare to give our best against a great opponent."