Brazil vs Argentina, FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament: Fans engage in ugly fight before kick-off – WATCH VIDEO

Argentina top the South American rankings in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, while Brazil are fifth. Brazil are missing Neymar and Vinicius Jr due to injuries.

Lionel Messi leads Argentina off the field after the match against Brazil had a delayed start. (Image:

Rio: The match between Brazil and Argentina in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup got off to a delayed start after fans from both countries clashed at the Maracana Stadium on Wednesday. The incident took place after both teams played their national anthems and performed pre-match rituals. Suddenly, it emerged that a group of fans had clashed, forcing local police to take immediate action. Both players from Brazil and Argentina had to leave the field.

A fight has broken out between Brazil and Argentina…!pic.twitter.com/IFVajYoZgw

— 👑155A (limited) (@issa_umar54500) November 22, 2023

In another video that emerged on social media, Lionel Messi and his Argentine teammates were seen walking towards stands where Argentine fans were hit by police. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was also involved in a minor fight with local police for mishandling the situation.

Emi Martinez is not happy with the way the police handled the situation pic.twitter.com/bxg8J80HZ2

— Leo Messi 🔟 Fan Club (@WeAreMessi) November 22, 2023

It was after that incident when Messi ordered his teammates to the dressing room. While walking back, he also saw the 2022 World Cup winner collide with Brazilian Rodrygo. However, other Argentine players ensured that nothing major happened between the two sides.

After a 30 minute delay, the match finally started.