Brazil started their 2024 Copa América campaign with a disappointing goalless draw against Costa Rica, with frustrated talisman Neymar watching on from the stands as his compatriots failed to find a way through in their Group D opener. There is now additional onus on them to record a victory in their second fixture against Paraguay at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise on Friday.
Why isn’t Neymar playing for Brazil at the 2024 Copa América?
Neymar tore his ACL while playing for the national team in a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October, with the tournament in the United States coming a little too soon for his return.
Former Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro was omitted from the 26-man squad by new coach Dorival Júnior after a disappointing season with Manchester United, while fellow Premier League stars Richarlison and Gabriel Jesus were also left out.
Brazil frustration against Costa Rica
On another day, Dorival Júnior’s team could have ended up winning the game comfortably. Rodrygo, Raphinha and Lucas Paquetá all passed up good chances, while Marquinhos had a goal narrowly ruled out for offside, all in the first half.
In the second, Paquetá struck the post from distance, Haxzel Quirós miraculously avoided scoring an own goal and Bruno Guimarães should probably have done better than shoot over in injury time.
Potential changes to Brazil XI lineup against Paraguay
With Brazil barely tested in defence, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them continue with the same goalkeeper and back four in their second match against Paraguay. Yan Couto would be a more attacking alternative at right-back to Danilo, but the fact the former Real Madrid defender has been named as captain suggests he will likely continue.
João Gomes started in central midfield ahead of Douglas Luiz against Costa Rica, although there has been some suggestion they will swap roles against Paraguay.
In attack, Raphinha, Lucas Paquetá and VinÃcius Júnior will again be expected to play in support of Rodrygo, although Endrick and in particular Sávio made lively substitute appearances on matchday one and are pushing for starting roles.
Possible Brazil XI against Paraguay
Alisson; Danilo, Militão, Marquinhos, Arana; Guimarães, Luiz; Raphinha, Paquetá, VinÃcius; Rodrygo.
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Arsenal attacker Gabriel Martinelli also came off the bench against Costa Rica and will be another of Dorival Júnior’s attacking options if things aren’t going to plan.
After facing Paraguay, the five-time World Cup winners will finish their Group D campaign by going up against Colombia at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara on 2 July.
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Publish date : 2024-06-27 15:50:01
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