Is Argentina vs Brazil on TV tonight and why is Lionel Messi not playing?
03/25/2025 05:00 PM
Argentina and Brazil renew hostilities in a huge World Cup qualifier tonight in Buenos Aires.
World champions Argentina are on the brink of qualifying for next summer's tournament in North America following their 1-0 win over Uruguay last Friday with Thiago Almada's goal separating the two sides.
Victory or even a draw tonight will confirm their place in the 2026 finals with Brazil also close to securing their place.
A couple of huge names will not be involved but perhaps the most famous fixture in international football always has a stellar supporting cast.
Here's how to follow all the action.
When is Argentina vs Brazil? Date and kick-off time
Argentina vs Brazil is scheduled to kick off at 12am GMT on the early hours of Wednesday 26 March.
Argentina vs Brazil TV channel and live stream
UK viewers can watch the match live on Premier Sports 1 with coverage underway at 11:55pm on Tuesday night.
Premier Sports subscribers can also watch the match live on the app and website.
Why is Lionel Messi not playing?
Lionel Messi was left out of the Argentina squad for qualifying games against Uruguay and Brazil due to injury.
The 37-year-old is struggling with a 'low grade' adductor injury picked up playing for Inter Miami against Atlanta United.
'It's a shame to miss these two special matches with the national team against Uruguay and Brazil,'' Messi said. 'As always, I wanted to be there, but at the last moment, a minor injury forced me to take a break before playing again, and I had to step aside.
'But I’ll be supporting and cheering from here like a fan.'
Why is Neymar not playing?
Neymar was in line to make his first Brazil appearance in 17 months after returning to boyhood club Santos in January, scoring three and laying on three assists in his first seven appearances.
But another injury setback forced the 33-year-old to withdraw from the squad earlier this month, with Real Madrid’s Endrick brought into replace him.
'The return seemed so close, but unfortunately I won’t be able to wear the most important jersey in the world for the moment,' Neymar said.
'We had long conversations and everyone knows of my desire to return, but we agreed that it’s best not to take any risks and prepare as best as possible to completely eradicate the injury.'
Argentina vs Brazil team news
Messi and Neymar aren’t the only absentees tonight. Lionel Scaloni is also without Lautaro Martinez, Lisandro Martinez, Paulo Dybala, Giovani Lo Celso and Gonzalo Montiel.
Brazil meanwhile are without the suspended Gabriel Magalhaes and Bruno Guimaraes with Alisson Becker also returning to Liverpool after suffering a head injury against Colombia.
