Argentina coach, Lionel Scaloni said he has forgiven Brazil’s Raphinha following the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday night.
Media Talk Africa reports that Raphinha, who has been in brilliant form for Barcelona this season, had during an interview with Selecao legend, Romario, made some boastful comments ahead of Argentina’s tie with Brazil.
The 28-year-old said that Brazil will beat Argentina silly and also tipped himself to be one of the scorers for his country.
“We’re going to give Argentina a beating, no doubt. Am I going to score? Yes. With everything. F**k them,” Raphinha had said.
But Raphinha’s wish didn’t come true as Argentina celebrated their 2026 World Cup qualification with a dazzling 4-1 thrashing of Brazil in Buenos Aires.
Goals from Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister and Giuliano Simeone gave Scaloni’s side the win over Brazil.
Speaking after the game, Scaloni said has forgiven Raphinha’s for his comments, insisting that the player was only defending his country.
“I forgive Raphinha because I know he didn’t do it on purpose, he’s defending his country,” Scaloni said as quoted by Fabrizio Romano after the game.
“I’m completely sure he didn’t mean to hurt anyone. We didn’t play like this because of that.”
The result leaves Argentina top of the South American standings with 31 points from 14 matches while Brazil are in fourth position on 21 points.
