The CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying continues this Thursday with a key match in Brasilia, where Brazil will host Colombia. Both teams are aiming to secure their place in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Currently, Colombia is in fourth place and Brazil is in fifth in the qualifying standings. Both are within the automatic qualification spots and comfortably ahead of the seventh-place team, which would go to the intercontinental playoffs. Brazil is five points ahead of seventh-place Bolivia and six ahead of eighth-place Venezuela, while Colombia has a slightly better position.
With several qualifying games remaining, both Brazil and Colombia are under pressure to perform well. Brazil has improved after a shaky start to the qualifiers. While they initially struggled, they have since gained momentum, though they still appear somewhat vulnerable. Despite Neymar’s absence due to injury, Brazil still has a strong team with players like Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Raphinha. Coach Dorival Junior views this game as crucial for Brazil to meet expectations.
Colombia has a significant opportunity to achieve another important victory, especially after defeating Brazil 2-1 in November 2023. Their team is spearheaded by Luis Diaz, who, despite a recent dip in club form, remains a key player for his national side. This match could be a turning point for Diaz to regain his scoring touch.
Match Details
- Date: Thursday, March 20
- Location: Estadio Nacional Mane Garrincha, Brasília, Brazil
Projected Lineups
Brazil: Alisson, Vanderson, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Arana, Gerson, Guimaraes, Rodrygo, Raphinha, Vinicius, Cunha
Colombia: Vargas, Munoz, Lucumi, Sanchez, Mojica, Portilla, Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz, Duran
Match Prediction
Although Colombia defeated Brazil in November 2023 during an unbeaten streak, their form has been inconsistent since the Copa America. This inconsistency might give Brazil an advantage, despite their own challenges. It’s predicted that Brazil might secure a narrow victory through the brilliance of their attacking players. Prediction: Brazil 1, Colombia 0
