Ahead of the crucial match between the South American powerhouses in World Cup qualification, Brazil’s Raphinha has ignited a fire under Argentina’s players and supporters. After an incredible season so far, in which he has emerged as a leading candidate for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, the Barcelona star is feeling confident.
The opposition is not pleased with his remarks made just two days prior to the highly anticipated match in Argentina, and since this is one of the most intense international rivalries in football, things could get heated on the pitch.
In the South American rankings, Raphinha and Brazil are seven points behind Argentina; nevertheless, a victory on the other team’s home pitch this Wednesday might cut the deficit to four points. Both countries have a good chance of qualifying for the tournament in the United States in 2026.
Raphinha promises to help Brazil defeat Argentina.
He feels more confident now that Lionel Messi is not there.
A goal against the current world champions was guaranteed by the Barcelona winger in an interview with Romario, one of Brazil’s finest players ever. “We are going to play against Argentina, our biggest rival,” Romario said when asked if his previous club will be the favourites in Lionel Messi’s absence due to injury. Thank heavens, will we defeat them without Messi?
Brazil would gain the upper hand in any way necessary, Raphinha responded firmly. In response, he said:
“I have no doubt that we will defeat them. If necessary, both on and off the pitch.”
Romario then asked, “Are you going to try to score a goal against Argentina?” to find out if the former Leeds United player believed he would find the target for a second consecutive international match. Once more demonstrating why he’s one of the best players in the game right now, Raphinha said, “Yes, with everything.”
Before a major match, Argentina’s players and supporters might have been happy with this level of assurance. However, Romario’s question, “F*** them?” is what undoubtedly infuriated several people. Raphinha’s response was, “F*** them.”
Raphinha Gets Back at Angel di Maria
The former Argentine celebrity found humour in
Angel di Maria, who is currently at Benfica, became involved after viewing a video of the interview between the two Brazilians on Instagram. Three laughing emojis were the only response from the superstar who laid up his boots at the international level after winning the 2024 Copa America final.
🚨 Ángel Di María responds to Raphinha’s statement 📲🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/goiNgLw1Nw
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) March 24, 2025
Everyone could tell how the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star felt about what he was hearing without the need for words. Despite accusations that modern football lacks the extra intensity that the game formerly had, this shows that intense competition is still very much alive and strong.
