Brazil and Argentina have both suffered a blow to their preparations for upcoming international friendlies, as key defenders are sidelined due to injury just days before their respective matches.
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Brazil’s Defensive Setback
Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhães has withdrawn from the squad after sustaining a knee injury. The Arsenal centre-back picked up the problem during last Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester City, which Brazil’s contingent watched with concern as Magalhães played the full 90 minutes despite discomfort. Following the match, he reported pain in his right knee, prompting medical assessments that confirmed he is not fit to participate in FIFA international fixtures.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed that no replacement will be called up for Magalhães ahead of Brazil’s friendlies.
Argentina Hit in Defence
Argentina also faces defensive challenges. Right-back Gonzalo Montiel has suffered a hamstring injury during River Plate’s recent clash with Estudiantes, ruling him out of the next two friendlies. Head coach Lionel Scaloni has named Nahuel Molina of Atlético Madrid as Montiel’s replacement. Molina has been in excellent form for his club, providing Scaloni with a reliable alternative in the right-back position.
Additionally, centre-back Leonardo Balerdi of Olympique Marseille is unavailable due to injury. He has been replaced by River Plate centre-back Lucas Martínez Quarta, who earns his first call-up to the national side since the 2024 Copa América.
Upcoming Friendlies Schedule
| Team | Opponent | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Argentina | Mauritania | 27 March 2026 | La Bombonera, Buenos Aires |
| Argentina | Zambia | 31 March 2026 | La Bombonera, Buenos Aires |
| Brazil | France | 27 March 2026 | France (Neutral venue) |
| Brazil | Croatia | 1 April 2026 | Brazil (local time early) |
Argentina will host Mauritania on Friday, 27 March, at Buenos Aires’ La Bombonera, followed by a second match against Zambia on 31 March. Brazil will face France in an away friendly on Thursday night, then meet Croatia on 1 April as part of their World Cup preparation under coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Implications for World Cup Preparation
Magalhães’ absence is a notable concern for Brazil’s defensive line, potentially affecting Ancelotti’s tactical plans. In contrast, Argentina’s swift replacements aim to maintain stability and continuity in defence, providing Scaloni an opportunity to test new combinations ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Both teams view these friendlies as crucial opportunities to finalise squad selection and assess players’ form. While Brazil manages without Magalhães, Argentina benefits from the integration of Martínez Quarta and Molina, ensuring competitive readiness against international opposition.
The friendlies will serve as a key benchmark for both nations, offering insight into squad depth and tactical flexibility in the run-up to the World Cup.