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In the most anticipated clash of the World Cup 2022 CONMEBOL qualifier, arch rivals Argentina welcomed Brazil to the Corinthians Arena. The high-voltage clash ended in a goalless 0-0 draw, which saw La Albiceleste qualify for the Qatar World Cup.
Brazil and Argentina are the two biggest teams in South America and their rivalry made us expect another mouthwatering clash. Unfortunately, both teams failed to seal victory and left the audience asking for more from the meeting.
Argentina were second in the group and are yet to lose any of their World Cup qualifiers so far. Lionel Messi returned from an injury to feature against their arch rivals. A draw was enough to help them qualify for the 2022 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Brazil were looking to avenge their loss in the Copa America 2021 final yet they were largely dull on the pitch. Selecao failed to dominate possession and make good on their chances. This saw them held to a goalless draw after winning all of their seven World Cup Qualifier matches.
Having already qualified for the World Cup, Brazil were without any pressure. Yet their lackluster performance was just not good enough to defeat Argentina. On that note, let's take a look at
Five Brazil players who underperformed against Argentina
#5 Alisson Becker
Alisson Becker has proved to be the undisputed primary choice for Brazil and remains one of the best shot-stoppers in the world. He is usually calm and confident between the posts but against Argentina, the Liverpool goalkeeper looked nervy and under pressure.
Throughout the match, Alisson invited pressure by holding onto the ball for too long. Defensive tactics from Tite might have been one of the reasons for Alisson's approach. But the goalkeeper almost paved the way for an Argentina goal in the second-half.
With Ederson sitting in the reserves, these silly mistakes might lead Alisson to lose his place in the upcoming World Cup.
#4 Alex Sandro
Alex Sandro remains a key player for Brazil's defensive unit. He is not a dynamic player like Marcelo. But the left-back is experienced and provides more structure to the team's defensive shape. Although Argentina did not score, Sandro was hardly effective on the flanks.
Sandro provided nothing in his overlaps and his link-up play with Vinicius Junior was not up to the mark. The 30-year-old was also not perfect with the timing of his tackles, which were evidenced through numerous fouls at the back. Sandro was certainly not up to the mark and will have to improve in the near future.
#3 Raphinha
Leeds United youngster Raphinha started out on the right wing for Brazil but hardly caused trouble for the Argentine defenders. Otamendi's rough elbow on the Brazilian right-winger should have been penalized, but it was Raphinha's only noteworthy highlight from the clash.
Raphinha, who registered just two shots, was unable to dislodge Argentina's defense and create an opening for Brazil. Operating from the right flank, Raphinha had one successful cross which was an extremely poor output by his standards. The 24-year-old had a quiet outing despite being an effective ball-carrier on the right.
With another talented winger from Ajax, Antony, knocking on the first team's doors, Raphinha must step up and show his caliber in the big matches. Unfortunately, he had a forgettable performance against Argentina which shows there is still work that needs to be done from the player. He was deservingly substituted in the 70 minute mark to make way for Antony.
#2 Fred
Fred is one of the players who is struggling to make a mark for his club and country. The Manchester United midfielder worked immensely to keep Argentina from scoring. But even his hard work could not cover his lack of quality in the midfield.
Fred had an improved outing, for sure, with the player successful in his duels and tackles. But the 28-year-old is not an imposing presence in Brazil's midfield and does not take any risks. As a result, he fails to link up with the forwards, which forces them to drop deep and create chances.
Poor in ball progression, Fred offers nothing offensively. The below-par performances of Giovani Lo Celso, Marcos Acuna and Angel Di Maria helped with his case. However, Fred must improve to leave any lasting impact for Brazil.
#1 Lucas Paqueta
Milan midfielder Lucas Paqueta bears a creative burden for Brazil, with Tite preferring two defensive midfielders in midfield. With Fred and Fabinho beside him, Paqueta did not seem to be up for the task and failed to do anything noteworthy in midfield.
Without Neymar, Paqueta was in charge of linking the midfield with the forwards. Yet the two wingers and striker were left starving for some creative outlets or passes from the Brazilian. On Tuesday night, he endured another unispring performance against Argentina.
