'We Will Beat Them Up': Raphinha’s Fiery War Cry Ahead Of Brazil's Clash With Argentina
Raphinha aims to make an impact as Brazil faces Argentina in a World Cup qualifier. Despite Messi's absence, Raphinha confidently predicted a win, sparking outrage. Coach Scaloni stressed sportsmanship.
Raphinha is determined to make his impact on and off the field when Brazil faces Argentina in a FIFA World Cup qualifier in Buenos Aires on Wednesday, March 26.
The Barcelona winger opened up about the highly anticipated fixture during a recent interaction with country legend Romario. When asked about their preparation, Raphinha said that they would be ready to do anything and everything to beat Argentina.
related stories
“We are going to play against Argentina, our biggest rival. Now, thank God, without Messi, are we going to beat them?" the former Brazilian striker asked on Romario TV.
Romario further referred to the absence of Lionel Messi, who will miss the game due to an adductor injury. Raphinha appeared to be unfazed about any individual player as he replied, “We’ll beat them up… Absolutely! Beat them up! On the pitch and off the pitch if we have to."
Romario then asked Raphinha if he would score against the South American rivals. “For sure, I’m going to score. I’m going in with everything I’ve got…," the 28-year-old responded with sheer confidence. Before signing off, he emphatically said, “F*** them."
Raphinha might have tried to motivate his teammates with his rallying call but his comments reportedly sparked an outrage in Argentina.
Lionel Scaloni was also asked to share his view on the topic during a pre-match press conference. Apparently trying to pacify the situation, the Argentine coach said, “An Argentina-Brazil match is an important match, but it’s still a football match. It shouldn’t go any further than that."
He also referred to the friendship between Messi and Neymar. Dispute being the national rivals, the former Barcelona stars share a great bond off the field.
“We both want to win and we’ll be lions on the inside, but friends on the outside. We all have a Brazilian friend; I know a lot of them; it shouldn’t go any further than that," Scaloni added.
It will be Raphinha’s first game against Argentina since 2021 when he was injured by opposition defender Nicolas Otamendi and needed five stitches. Brazil have been unable to beat their arch-rivals in six years.
With Raphinha and Vinicius Jr in sublime form, the Selecao will be keen to turn the tables this time in the Argentine capital.
- Location :
- First Published: