Lionel Scaloni hints at stepping down from Argentina job

Scaloni saw his side claim a historic victory at the Maracana, where the kick off was delayed due to clashes in the stand between Brazilian police and Argentina supporters.

Nicolas Otamendi scored what proved to be the decisive goal of the game, with his 63rd-minute header condemning Brazil to their first-ever home World Cup qualifying defeat.

After seeing his side maintain their place at the top of the standings, Scaloni made a stunning admission that he was considering leaving his post as Argentina's head coach.

Scaloni told reporters: "Argentina needs a coach who has all the energy possible and who is well... I need to stop the ball and start thinking, I have a lot of things to think about during this time.

"These players have given a lot to the coaching staff and I need to think a lot about what I'm going to do.

"It's not goodbye or anything, but I need to think because the bar is very high and it's complicated to keep going and it's complicated to keep winning.

"These guys are making it difficult, so I need to think about it for a while. I will talk to the FA president and the players afterwards."

The 45-year-old has enjoyed significant success since taking over the reins from Jorge Sampaoli in August 2018.

Scaloni guided his country to the Copa America title in 2021, bringing an end to their 28-year wait for a major trophy.

The Argentina boss went on to win football's grandest prize in December last year, with La Albiceleste lifting their third World Cup trophy following a penalty shootout win over France.

Having won 46 of his 67 games in charge, Scaloni will seemingly take time to weigh up his future ahead of the new year.

Argentina's next major tournament appearance will take place next summer when they defend their Copa America title in the United States.