Argentina booked their 2006 World Cup finals berth with a 3-1 win over arch-rivals Brazil in Buenos Aires. The hosts stunned Brazil in the first half as on-loan Chelsea striker Hernan Crespo bagged a brace and Juan Roman Riquelme also scored.
Brazil only reduced the deficit thanks to a superb free-kick by Roberto Carlos in the 72nd minute.
"The supporters deserved this victory," said Crespo, who is expected to stay with AC Milan. "We played very well."
 |  Brazil will go to Germany perhaps stronger for the fact that Argentina punctured their balloon of euphoria |
Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira admitted that Argentina were worthy winners.
He said: "The way they played in the first-half, Argentina deserved the victory.
"On Saturday against Paraguay - and after our 4-1 victory - we were in paradise but in this game we were in hell.
"For some reason we always find it difficult to play here."
MMIX
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