Brazil and Argentina are the flag-bearers of soccer outside Europe. The two South American nations have been two of the best teams in the world over the years and will look to exert their dominance during the upcoming Copa America 2024. While Lionel Messi-led Argentina is surely the favorite heading into the tournament, expect them to receive some stiff competition from Brazil. The Selecao has outstanding quality in their ranks and will pose an enormous threat to the Albiceleste.

Brazil’s star winger Rodrygo addressed the rivalry between the two nations in an interview. Talking to Placar, the Real Madrid star claimed while Argentina is the favorite to lift the title, it doesn’t mean Brazil will not give their all to dethrone the defending champions.

Rodrygo stated, “Brazil, in every competition, every game, are always favorites. Of course, we are behind Argentina, they are the world champions, and current champions of the Copa América as well, but we are with all the ability to change this situation and make Brazil return to being the best in America and the best in the world.”

These are surely fighting words from the Brazilian star. I mean, these words certainly feel a little bland after Brazil tied 1-1 against the United States in their previous encounter. However, Brazil has proven its quality over the past few months and won’t let the setback against the hosts derail their momentum. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi will relish their chance to play their rivals, especially with how things went down during their last encounter.

Lionel Messi lost his calm with Rodrygo

It’s rare to see Lionel Messi lose his head. The Inter Miami star is one of the calmest players on the pitch as he tries to analyze everything going onto the field. However, even La Pulga has his off days, something which became the focal point of the previous clash between Argentina and Brazil. The last encounter between the two teams saw the defending World Champions travel to Brazil to take on the Selecao. However, a fight broke out between the two sets of supporters which saw local authorities using force against the away fans.

This did not sit well with Lionel Messi and his men, who protested against the actions delaying the game. Brazil star Rodrygo apparently used this moment to slide a dig towards the Albiceleste, claiming they were afraid and did not want to face Brazil. It set Messi off, who squared off with the winger during the game, telling him off while warning him to keep his mouth shut. Argentina then doubled down on their captain’s words with the world champions picking up a 1-0 win.

Brazil will be quite eager to pay back their rivals during the Copa America, and it will be interesting to see who comes out on top when these two behemoths lock horns!