The Copa American 2024 football scene is set for another thrilling encounter as Brazil vs Paraguay. This match promises excitement and high-quality football, with both teams eager to showcase their strengths. Here’s an in-depth preview, prediction, and a look at the head-to-head record between these two South American powerhouses.
Preview
Brazil: Brazil, known as “Seleção,” is one of the most successful and iconic teams in football history. With a rich legacy of World Cup victories and legendary players, Brazil continues to be a dominant force. The current squad, led by coach Tite, features a mix of experienced stars and promising talents. Neymar, Vinícius Júnior, and Casemiro are some of the key players who bring skill, creativity, and stability to the team. Brazil’s style of play, characterized by flair, speed, and attacking prowess, makes them a formidable opponent.
Paraguay: Paraguay, known as “La Albirroja,” has a reputation for being a tough, resilient team with a strong defensive mindset. Under the leadership of coach Guillermo Barros Schelotto, Paraguay has been working on strengthening its squad with a blend of experienced players and young talents. Key figures such as Miguel Almirón and Gustavo Gómez bring quality and leadership to the team. Paraguay’s approach often involves a solid defensive setup combined with quick counter-attacks, making them a challenging team to break down.
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Predictions
Brazil enters this match as the favorite, given their superior form, squad depth, and historical success. However, Paraguay’s disciplined defense and counter-attacking ability could pose challenges for the Brazilian team.
Prediction:
- Brazil 3-1 Paraguay
This prediction highlights Brazil’s attacking strength and the potential for them to dominate possession and create multiple scoring opportunities. However, Paraguay’s resilience and capability to score on the counter should not be underestimated.
Head-to-Head Record
The historical encounters between Brazil and Paraguay have been competitive, with Brazil generally having the upper hand. Here are some key statistics from their head-to-head record:
- Total Matches Played: 82
- Brazil Wins: 51
- Paraguay Wins: 13
- Draws: 18
Notable Encounters:
- Copa América 2011: Brazil 0-2 Paraguay (Penalty Shootout)
- A memorable match where Paraguay defeated Brazil in the quarterfinals after a penalty shootout, showcasing their defensive strength and composure under pressure.
- World Cup Qualifier 2017: Brazil 3-0 Paraguay
- A dominant performance by Brazil in the World Cup qualifiers, demonstrating their attacking prowess and control over the game.
- Copa América 2019: Brazil 0-0 Paraguay (Brazil won 4-3 on Penalties)
- A tightly contested match that ended in a goalless draw, with Brazil eventually winning on penalties to advance in the tournament.
Match Information:
- Match: Brazil vs. Paraguay (Group D, Second day)
- Date: June 28, 2024
- Time:
- 6:00 p.m. local time (Las Vegas, Nevada)
- 9:00 p.m. in Asuncion (Paraguay)
- 10:00 p.m. in Brasilia (Brazil)
- Stadium: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, Nevada
Referee Appointments:
- Referee: Piero Maza (Chile)
- Assistant Referees: Claudio Urrutia and Miguel Rocha (Chile)
- Fourth Referee: Maurizio Mariani (Italy)
- VAR: Juan Lara (Chile)
Possible Lineups: Brazil vs. Paraguay
As Brazil and Paraguay gear up for their next clash, both teams will look to field their strongest lineups to secure a victory. Here are the possible lineups for both teams based on their recent performances, player form, and tactical preferences.
Brazil (4-3-3 Formation)
Goalkeeper:
- Alisson Becker (Liverpool) – Brazil’s first-choice goalkeeper, known for his shot-stopping abilities and command of the penalty area.
Defenders:
- Danilo (Juventus) – A reliable right-back with defensive solidity and the ability to support the attack.
- Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain) – A key center-back known for his defensive intelligence and leadership.
- Éder Militão (Real Madrid) – Partnering Marquinhos in central defense, providing strength and aerial ability.
- Renan Lodi (Nottingham Forest) – A dynamic left-back who contributes to both defense and attack.
Midfielders:
- Casemiro (Manchester United) – The midfield anchor, offering defensive cover and distribution.
- Lucas Paquetá (West Ham United) – A creative midfielder who links defense and attack with his passing and movement.
- Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle United) – Adds energy and technical skill to the midfield, capable of driving forward and contributing defensively.
Forwards:
- Raphinha (Barcelona) – A pacey and skillful winger on the right, known for his dribbling and crossing.
- Neymar (Paris Saint-Germain) – The talisman of the team, playing in a free role on the left, capable of creating and scoring goals.
- Richarlison (Tottenham Hotspur) – Leading the line, providing physical presence and goal-scoring ability.
Paraguay (4-4-2 Formation)
Goalkeeper:
- Antony Silva (Puebla) – Experienced goalkeeper with good reflexes and command of his area.
Defenders:
- Alberto Espínola (Cerro Porteño) – A solid right-back known for his defensive discipline and occasional forward runs.
- Gustavo Gómez (Palmeiras) – The captain and key central defender, providing leadership and aerial dominance.
- Junior Alonso (Krasnodar) – Partnering Gómez in central defense, offering composure and tackling ability.
- Santiago Arzamendia (Cádiz) – A left-back who balances defensive duties with supporting the attack.
Midfielders:
- Ángel Cardozo Lucena (Libertad) – A hardworking central midfielder who breaks up play and distributes the ball efficiently.
- Matías Villasanti (Gremio) – Adds energy and tenacity to the midfield, capable of driving forward and supporting the defense.
- Miguel Almirón (Newcastle United) – The creative spark in midfield, known for his dribbling, speed, and ability to unlock defenses.
- Óscar Romero (Boca Juniors) – Provides flair and technical skill, capable of creating chances from the wings or centrally.
Forwards:
- Ángel Romero (Cruz Azul) – A versatile forward who can play across the front line, known for his work rate and goal-scoring ability.
- Antonio Sanabria (Torino) – Leading the attack, providing a physical presence and finishing ability in the box.
The upcoming match between Brazil vs Paraguay is poised to be an exciting and high-stakes encounter. Brazil’s attacking flair and depth in squad give them the edge, but Paraguay’s disciplined defense and counter-attacking threat ensure they remain a tough opponent. Fans can expect a thrilling match that captures the essence of South American football, with skill, passion, and tactical battles on full display. Whether Brazil continues their dominance or Paraguay springs a surprise, this clash is set to be a memorable one.
