For the first time in two decades, a Superclásico between Argentina and Brazil will take place without either Neymar or Lionel Messi on the field.

In the last 20 encounters between the two South American giants, at least one of these superstars has always been present. However, that streak will end on Wednesday when Argentina and Brazil face off at the Monumental in the 14th round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, as both players are sidelined due to left thigh injuries.

The Last Brazil-Argentina Clash Without Messi or Neymar

The last time Argentina and Brazil met without Messi or Neymar was on June 29, 2005, in the FIFA Confederations Cup final. Back then, former Brazil coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo was managing Real Madrid, and current rising star Endrick had not even been born. Brazil secured a 4-1 victory over Argentina, thanks to a stunning performance from the legendary "Magic Square" of Kaká, Ronaldinho, Robinho, and Adriano.

Since then, the two teams have faced off 20 times, with Neymar and Messi sharing the field in only five of those matches. However, at least one of them was present in every single game—until now.

Messi and Neymar: The Icons of Their Nations

Since Messi's debut for Argentina, the Superclásico has had different outcomes depending on which star was on the field:

  • With both Neymar and Messi playing: Brazil won 2 matches, Argentina won 3 (goal difference: 8-6 in favor of Argentina).

  • With only Messi on the field: Brazil won 4, Argentina won 3, and they drew 2 (goal difference: 11-4 in favor of Brazil).

  • With only Neymar on the field: Brazil won 4, Argentina won 1, and they drew 1 (goal difference: 9-4 in favor of Brazil).

One of the most infamous meetings was on September 5, 2021, when Brazil and Argentina played at the Neo Química Arena in what became known as the "Anvisa Clásico." That match was abandoned after just four minutes due to a COVID-19 controversy and was later canceled by FIFA.

The last time both Messi and Neymar played in a Superclásico was at Maracanã Stadium in the Copa América 2021 final, where Messi led Argentina to a 1-0 victory, securing his first major international title.

A New Era Without Messi and Neymar

With Neymar absent, Rodrygo will once again wear Brazil's iconic No. 10 jersey. On the Argentine side, the No. 10 shirt will be worn by Ángel Correa, who is usually a substitute. This marks a new chapter in the legendary rivalry—one without the two superstars who have defined an era.