Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 10, 2024 6:27 am GMT
Brazil and Paraguay Face Off in Critical World Cup Qualifier
In a highly anticipated World Cup qualifying match, Brazil is set to face Paraguay on September 11, 2024, at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asunción. Both teams are at crucial points in their respective campaigns, with Brazil aiming for back-to-back victories while Paraguay seeks to improve its standing after a series of disappointing results.
Current Standings and Recent Performances
As Brazil prepares for this qualifier, they sit in fourth place on the CONMEBOL table with 10 points, while Paraguay is in seventh place with 6 points. Historically, Brazil has dominated this fixture, winning four of their last five encounters, including a convincing 4-1 victory during the Copa America group stage earlier this year.
For Brazil, a recent 1-0 win over Ecuador provided a much-needed boost. Despite struggling with form earlier in the qualifiers, manager Dorival Júnior seems to have revitalized the team, now showcasing an unbeaten streak across nine matches in all competitions. The players are performing better after a lackluster Copa America, where Brazil experienced their worst tournament in years, suffering a penalty loss in the quarterfinals to Uruguay.
On the other hand, Paraguay comes into this match reeling from a disappointing run, having just recorded a goalless draw against Uruguay. Under new management from Gustavo Alfaro, the team has only secured one win in their last eight matches and faces challenges in their attacking play. Their last victory against Brazil at home came in June 2008, which compounds the pressure on the current squad.
Team News and Expected Lineups
For this match, Paraguay will be without defender Gustavo Gómez, who is serving a one-match suspension. Veteran Fabian Balbuena is expected to take his place in central defense alongside Omar Alderete. Midfielder Mathias Villasanti is likely to start after contributing significantly as a substitute against Uruguay.
In contrast, Brazil faces its own challenges with injuries affecting key players. Real Madrid’s Eder Militao is unavailable due to an injury, alongside several other key squad members. However, Dorival Júnior might retain much of the lineup that triumphed over Ecuador, with Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr. expected to lead the attack after notable performances in recent matches.
Potential Starting Lineups
- Paraguay: Gatito; Velazquez, Balbuena, Alderete, Alonso; Gomez, Villasanti, Bobadilla; Almiron, Enciso, Pitta
- Brazil: Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Wendell; Joao Gomes, Bruno Guimaraes; Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior, Endrick
Match Predictions and Betting Insights
As the match approaches, betting odds heavily favor Brazil, who are at 1/2 to win. Conversely, Paraguay’s chances are seen as slim with odds set at 19/4, and a draw priced at 5/2. Recent form suggests that Brazil’s attacking prowess and overall quality may prove too much for the struggling Paraguayan side.
Noteworthy betting offers include boosts for Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr. to both score, now enhanced to 12/1. This reflects the bookmakers’ confidence in Brazil’s offensive capabilities following their recent performance.
Key Players to Watch
- Brazil:
– Rodrygo has become an essential figure, scoring the lone goal against Ecuador and previously netting twice during their last clash against Paraguay.
– Vinicius Jr. has consistently contributed to Brazil’s attack, making him a crucial player to watch.
- Paraguay:
– Isidro Pitta, fresh off a debut, might provide the necessary spark Paraguay has lacked in front of the goal.
– Miguel Almiron and Julio Enciso are also pivotal as they seek to support Pitta in attack.
Historical Context and Meeting Outcomes
Historically, Brazil leads the head-to-head record against Paraguay, claiming victory in 10 of their 18 encounters, with three matches ending in draws. This historical advantage coupled with Brazil’s current form makes them strong candidates for another win when they face Paraguay.
As the match approaches, Brazil looks to solidify their position within the qualifying group’s top spots while Paraguay aims to turn their recent misfortunes into a much-needed victory. Fans worldwide will be watching closely to see if Brazil can maintain their dominance or if Paraguay will rise to the occasion in front of their home crowd.
By Joseph Barclay
Published: 15:02 EDT, 10 September 2024 | Updated: 15:02 EDT, 10 September 2024
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