Brazil is looking to maintain their positive momentum in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying tournament as they prepare to face Venezuela on Thursday. After experiencing a challenging period, victories over Chile and Peru last month have helped the Selecao rise to fourth place in the qualification standings. They are now tied on points with Uruguay and only six points behind leaders Argentina.
Brazil aims to leverage these recent successes to kickstart their ascent in the standings against Venezuela, who are currently struggling. Following a strong performance in the Copa America group stage, where they secured three consecutive wins, Venezuela has faced difficulties, going winless in their last five matches and dropping to eighth in the qualifiers.
In terms of team news, Venezuela will be without key defender Yordan Osorio due to a back injury, as well as backup goalkeeper Joel Graterol, who is sidelined with a torn patellar tendon. Recent call-ups have excluded experienced veterans Josef Martinez and Roberto Rosales.
Venezuela’s confirmed starting lineup will employ a 4-2-3-1 formation, featuring Romo in goal, supported by Aramburu, Angel, Ramirez, and Navarro in defense.
On Brazil’s side, Coach Dorival has made one change from their previous match, replacing Rodrygo with Vinicius Junior in the starting lineup. Brazil continues to grapple with significant injuries; notably, Neymar remains out with a hamstring issue, while Rodrygo and Eder Militao have sustained serious injuries during club matches. The absence of these key players, along with goalkeeper Alisson and others, poses a challenge for the team.
Despite the injury challenges, Brazil’s lineup still boasts remarkable talent, including Ederson in goal and an attack led by Vinicius and Jesus. The team will aim to harness their recent form and talent to secure a much-needed win.
As fans anticipate this exciting match, there is a sense of hope for Brazil to capitalize on their current trajectory and for Venezuela to find a spark of form after a tough stretch. The match will be crucial for both teams, and supporters will be eager to see how the players respond under pressure.
For those wanting to catch the action, details regarding live streaming and TV coverage of this significant World Cup qualifying clash will be available through various broadcasters across major global regions.