Overview
Paraguay has rarely been considered a worthy opponent of Brazil. However, at present, the Selecao are showing serious signs of decline. They have continuously failed in major tournaments in a weak manner with unconvincing play.
Brazil are currently fourth in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in South America, with just 10 points, eight behind leaders Argentina. A hard-fought 1-0 win over Ecuador in their most recent match ended a run of three consecutive losses in World Cup qualifying.
In all competitions, Brazil have only won 2 of their last 5 matches. They were also eliminated early in the 2024 Copa America.
The two teams met in the group stage of Copa America 2024, where Brazil defeated Paraguay 4-1. That will be the basis for Selecao to believe in a positive result in this clash. Although not in good form, Brazil still has many stars in the squad. That is the difference that can bring 3 points to Selecao.
Meanwhile, Paraguay will have home advantage. In their last match, they played bravely and held Uruguay, who are in good form, to a draw away from home. This will be a strong point for Paraguay to hope for in their goal of scoring points against Brazil.
Brazil are unbeaten in their last 10 matches against Paraguay. Seven of the last 10 meetings between the two teams have seen more than two goals scored.
Human resources situation
Paraguay will almost certainly have their strongest squad to host Brazil at home.
On the other side of the front line, apart from Neymar, Brazil will be without Yan Couto, Savinho and Eder Militao due to injury. However, Raphinha will return to the starting lineup after suspension.
Expected lineup:
Paraguay : Gatito Fernandez, Velazquez, Junior Alonso, Alderete, Gomez, Villasanti, Bobadilla, Almiron, Enciso, Cubas, Pitta.
Brazil : Alisson, Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Arana, Andre, Guimaraes, Paqueta, Raphinha, Rodrygo, Vinicius.
The match between Paraguay and Brazil will take place at 7:30 a.m. on September 11 (Vietnam time).
