Brazil will go head-to-head with Uruguay in Bahia on Tuesday in a crucial encounter that could significantly influence their chances of securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
The Selecao currently finds themselves in fourth place in the highly competitive CONMEBOL standings, having achieved five wins alongside four losses and two draws in their 11 qualification matches so far. With only the top six teams guaranteed a place in the finals, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Brazil’s campaign still holds promise, and fans are urged to maintain their faith.
Nonetheless, the fanbase’s growing frustration is palpable due to the team’s inconsistent performances, especially after the disappointing 1-1 draw against Venezuela last week. This result has left Brazil in a precarious position as they prepare to face three of the current top three teams in the South American qualification table: Uruguay this week, followed by Colombia and Argentina in March 2025.
The pressure is mounting on head coach Dorival Junior to devise a strategy that secures a positive outcome against Marcelo Bielsa’s formidable team. All eyes will be on whether he opts for significant changes to his starting lineup.
The Sporting News delves into the latest team news and offers predicted starting 11s below.
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Brazil vs. Uruguay lineups, predicted starting 11, team news
Dorival is not anticipated to make sweeping changes to his starting 11 for the match against Uruguay, having only altered one player from the squad that steamrolled Peru 4-0 back in October for the clash with Venezuela.
One unavoidable adjustment will occur in the right-back position, as the suspended Vanderson is likely to be replaced by Danilo.
With key players such as Neymar and Rodrygo sidelined due to injury, the responsibility now falls on Raphinha, Vinicius Junior, and Manchester City’s Savinho to generate the necessary creativity and goal-scoring opportunities in the attacking third.
Brazil predicted XI (4-3-3, right to left): Ederson (GK) — Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Abner — Guimaraes, Gerson, Raphinha — Vinicius, Igor Jesus, Savinho
Injured: Alisson, Arana, Beraldo, Bremer, Bruno, Eder Militao, Neymar, Rodrygo
Suspended: Vanderson
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For Uruguay, Darwin Nunez will once again spearhead the attack after successfully having his five-match international suspension reduced on appeal.
It’s anticipated that Manchester United’s Manuel Ugarte could enter the lineup to bolster the midfield for the encounter against Brazil, who are expected to dominate possession, particularly given Ugarte’s standout performances, including his decisive contributions in their previous match against Colombia.
Uruguay predicted XI (4-3-3, right to left): Rochet (GK) — Varela, S Bueno, Gimenez, Olivera — Valverde, Ugarte, Bentancur — Pellistri, Nunez, M. Araujo.
Injured: None
Suspended: None
Brazil vs. Uruguay live stream, TV channel
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What impact might the absence of key players like Neymar and Rodrygo have on Brazil’s strategy against Uruguay?
**Interview with Sports Analyst, Julia Martins, about Brazil vs. Uruguay World Cup Qualifier**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Julia. Brazil’s upcoming match against Uruguay is a significant one for their World Cup aspirations. What’s your perspective on Brazil’s current situation in the CONMEBOL standings?
**Julia Martins:** Thank you for having me. Brazil is indeed in a crucial position right now. They are sitting in fourth, which is just outside direct qualification spots. With only six teams going through to the World Cup, every match counts, especially against strong opponents like Uruguay.
**Editor:** Brazil’s performance has been inconsistent; how do you think the draw against Venezuela impacts their morale going into this match?
**Julia Martins:** The 1-1 draw against Venezuela has definitely added pressure. It’s a frustrating result for fans and players alike, especially given the expectations. They’ve shown flashes of brilliance, like that 4-0 win over Peru, but maintaining that level consistently is the challenge. The draw could shake their confidence, but it should also serve as a wake-up call to rally harder against Uruguay.
**Editor:** We’ve heard that head coach Dorival Junior is under pressure. What strategies do you think he should employ to bounce back against Uruguay?
**Julia Martins:** Dorival needs to tighten the defense, especially with Vanderson suspended and key players injured. I believe he should stick with a solid 4-3-3 formation, but he should emphasize midfield control to limit Uruguay’s counter-attacks. Utilizing the attacking creativity of Raphinha and Vinicius will be essential to break down a disciplined Uruguayan defense.
**Editor:** With Neymar and Rodrygo out, who should fans be watching as potential game-changers for Brazil?
**Julia Martins:** That puts the spotlight on players like Raphinha, Vinicius Junior, and the young Savinho. Raphinha has the experience, and Vinicius has explosive pace and skill, which can be a nightmare for defenders. They’ll need to step up big time, especially creating chances and finishing.
**Editor:** Lastly, how do you see this match unfolding? What’s your prediction for the outcome?
**Julia Martins:** It’s going to be a tightly contested match. Uruguay is always a tough opponent, but if Brazil can control the midfield and take their chances, they can secure a vital win. I’d edge towards a close victory for Brazil, possibly 2-1, if they play to their potential.
**Editor:** Great insights, Julia. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, and we look forward to this exciting matchup!
**Julia Martins:** Thank you! It’s always a pleasure to discuss football, especially such a crucial game. Let’s hope for a thrilling encounter!