Today's the Day

I am perfectly aware that there are a multitude of other World Cup qualifier matches taking place today, but I have decided to focus on Argentina-Brazil for the time being. If something interesting shows up (for instance, if Hungary beats Portugal or Belgium beats Spain or vice versa on either accounts) you can be sure I'm going to report it. For now, however, I've decided to focus on the biggest rivalry on the continent of South America: Argentina vs. Brazil. I found an article that gives some facts and numbers dealing with the history of this highly-anticipated matchup. I've selected and paraphrased a few of the most interesting.

93: total times the two national teams have met. Brazil have won 35 times, Argentina 34, and 24 draws between the two. However, Argentina leads with most goals scored in the matches 149-145

16: the number of European-based Argentinian and Brazilian players who share a club team. Lionel Messi (Argentina) and Dani Alves (Brazil) both play for FC Barcelona. Carlos Tevez (Argentina) and Robinho (Brazil) play together at Manchester City. Fernando Gago (Argentina) and Kaka (Brazil) both play for Real Madrid. Javier Mascherano (Argentina) and Lucas (Brazil) both come into the match from Liverpool. Lucio, Julio Cesar, and Maicon (all Brazil) will face Argentinian Inter Milan teammates Diego Milito and Javier Zanetti. Finally, at AS Roma, Nicolas Burdisso (Argentina) could face either Juan or Julio Baptista of Brazil.

2: the number of previous South American Zone FIFA WC qualifying matches that have taken place on Argentinian soil. Argentina have won both- 2-1 in 2001 and 3-1 in 2005.

Basically, I really want to see Argentina win here. And I want to see Messi solidify himself as the best player in the world. I already give him that title, but if he plays well today and leads Argentina to victory, it will have international merit. Maradona has clearly shown his skills as a coach despite minor bumps along the way. Plus, I want to watch Messi and Gago in the World Cup next year. It's not a World Cup without the best players in the world. So I give La Albiceleste my luck. Buena suerte, hombres!