Brazil’s Marquinhos Apologizes for “Embarrassing” 4-1 Loss to Argentina in World Cup Qualifier
Brazil skipper Marquinhos offers apology to the fans following an embarrassing 4-1 loss to Argentina in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. With their worst ever qualifying loss, Brazil's road to the World Cup hangs in the balance.
Brazil were thrashed 4-1 by Argentina in World Cup qualifying, a worst-ever qualifying loss for the country. Captain Marquinhos described the performance as “embarrassing” and issued a public apology to supporters, as Argentina marked their historic win.
Buenos Aires, March 26, 2025 – Brazil skipper Marquinhos has apologized to supporters after a humiliating 4-1 loss to Argentina in their FIFA World Cup qualifying match in Buenos Aires. The defeat was Brazil‘s worst in World Cup qualifying, putting their spot in next year‘s finals in doubt.
“What we did here can’t be repeated,” Marquinhos said to Brazilian TV channel Globo. “It’s embarrassing. We began the game poorly, well below our level, while Argentina played intelligently. I‘m sorry for our fans.”
Argentina, already guaranteed qualification at the start thanks to Bolivia‘s draw with Uruguay, were in control from the very beginning. Julian Alvarez and Enzo Fernandez had scored early goals that left them ahead within 12 minutes. While Matheus Cunha took advantage of an own goal mistake to bring one back for Brazil, Alexis Mac Allister added Argentina‘s lead before the break. Giuliano Simeone sealed the comprehensive victory with a 71st-minute goal, sparking home fans into delirious celebrations.
Raphinha’s Pre-Match Comments Backfire
Brazilian forward Raphinha had fueled tensions before the game, stating that Brazil would “beat them up on the pitch and off the pitch” and that he was guaranteed to score. His late challenge in the first half sparked a heated confrontation with Argentina players, requiring intervention from teammates.
Following the game, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni downplayed the incident, coming to Raphinha‘s defense. “I know he didn’t do it intentionally. He was defending his team and didn’t mean to hurt anyone,” Scaloni said.
World Cup Qualification Standings
Argentina leads the South American qualification table with 31 points from 14 games, 16 points clear of seventh-place Venezuela. The top six teams qualify automatically for the World Cup.
Brazil, fourth on 21 points, remains with an uncertain path to qualification with four games still left to play.
Paraguay and Colombia had a dramatic 2-2 draw in Barranquilla. Colombia had opened up a two goal advantage early through Luis Diaz and Jhon Duran, but Paraguay rallied back, and Junior Alonso and Julio Enciso salvaged a crucial point.
With World Cup places still to be won, Brazil will have to rally soon to prevent more disappointment in their qualification bid.
