Raphinha and Rodrigo De Paul overcome Brazil-Argentina animosity in Barcelona's Copa Del Rey loss to Atletico Madrid

Barcelona's Raphinha and Atletico Madrid's Rodrigo De Paul have lately been caught in a heated exchange between Brazil and Argentina.

Raphinha and Rodrigo De Paul overcome Brazil-Argentina animosity in Barcelona's Copa Del Rey loss to Atletico Madrid

Stephen Awino 12:17 - 03.04.2025

Raphinha and Rodrigo De Paul have lately been caught in a heated exchange between Brazil and Argentina during the March international break.

Barcelona winger Raphinha and Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodrigo De Paul appear to have moved past their recent animosity, which stemmed from the fierce rivalry between Brazil and Argentina.

The tension between the two La Liga stars escalated during the March international break in the buildup to a crucial 2026 World Cup Qualifier between their respective national teams.

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Raphinha had stoked controversy ahead of the match with bold remarks asserting Brazil's superiority over Argentina.

"We will beat them, no doubt. On and off the pitch, if we have to," the winger declared, as previously reported by Pulse Sports.

His comments did not sit well with the Argentine squad, particularly De Paul, who took offense after Argentina's dominant 4-1 victory over Brazil.

Following the match, De Paul addressed the situation, emphasizing the respect Argentina had earned over the years.

"On the field, we did what we had to do. We've never disrespected anyone, but in all these years, we've been disrespected quite a bit. It's been five or six years that we've been the best team, so respect us," he stated in a post-match interview, as quoted by World Soccer Talk.

Despite the apparent bad blood, the two players demonstrated sportsmanship in Barcelona's recent Copa del Rey clash against Atletico Madrid.

Although Barcelona secured a 1-0 win on the night, they were eliminated from the competition in the semi-final stage, losing 5-4 on aggregate.

After the match, Raphinha and De Paul were seen exchanging jerseys, a gesture that signified mutual respect and a possible reconciliation between the two.

The moment drew widespread attention, highlighting the spirit of camaraderie in football despite intense rivalries on the pitch.