In Tuesday's South American World Cup qualifying match, Brazil was thrashed 4-1 by fierce rivals Argentina, and manager Dorival Jr. was under increasing pressure after his team was well outplayed and lucky not to lose by a larger margin.
On Thursday, Brazil defeated Colombia 2-1 at home before losing badly to the world champions, who began the thumping with a close-range goal from Julian Alvarez four minutes after kickoff.
Despite the absence of Lautaro Martinez injured Lionel Messi and Lionel Messi , Argentina was far ahead of their opponents and needed little time to increase their lead.
Enzo Fernández extended the lead to 2-0 with a precise strike from within the penalty area during the 12th minute. However, Brazil managed to reduce the deficit in the 26th minute when Argentina defender Cristian Romero committed an error, allowing Matheus Cunha to capitalize and score.
Argentina regained their two-goal advantage in the 37th minute when Alexis Mac Allister converted a cross from Fernandez with a precise finish.
Argentina failed to capitalize on multiple chances to increase their advantage before substitute Giuliano Simeone sealed the decisive goal with a close-range effort in the 71st minute.
Argentina was the first South American nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in North America, having secured their place with a 0-0 draw against Bolivia and Uruguay earlier Tuesday.
They lead the standings with 31 points from 14 matches, maintaining a 17-point advantage over seventh-placed Bolivia, which currently occupies the position for the international playoffs.
Brazil currently occupies the fourth position with 21 points.