In a monumental clash at the South American U-20 Championship, Argentina crushed Brazil 6-0, securing a record-breaking victory that stunned the football world. The match, held at Misael Delgado Stadium in Valencia, saw Argentina dominate from the outset, with three goals scored within the first 11 minutes.
River Plate’s Ian Subiabre opened the scoring in the 6th minute, assisted by Valentino Acuña, who once portrayed Lionel Messi in a Spanish documentary. Manchester City loanee Claudio Echeverri doubled the lead in the 8th minute, again assisted by Acuña. Moments later, Brazil’s Igor Cerato conceded an own goal, compounding Brazil’s woes.
The second half mirrored the first, with Agustín Ruberto, Echeverri, and Santiago Hidalgo adding three more goals, sealing Argentina’s emphatic win. This marks Argentina’s largest victory margin against Brazil at any national team level, surpassing their 6-1 win in the 1940 Roca Cup.
For Brazil, the defeat shattered a 71-year streak of never losing by more than three goals in this championship. It also marked the heaviest loss by any team in the competition since 2013, when Colombia defeated Bolivia 6-0.
Argentina coach Diego Placente, in his debut match, fielded a squad featuring key players from the 2023 U-17 World Cup semifinals. Forward Claudio Echeverri reflected on the win, stating, “We were well-prepared. Facing Brazil always inspires us. This is just the beginning.”
As Argentina celebrates, Brazil faces an uphill battle in the championship. Both teams aim to secure a spot in the U-20 World Cup in Chile this September.
