Argentina – Brazil expected line-up: Scaloni names Messi’s replacement

Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has been named in Argentina’s starting line-up against Brazil after not playing against Uruguay.

Coach Scaloni will field his strongest possible side against Brazil. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez will be in goal, while the defence will be made up of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi and Nicolas Tagliafico.

The arrival of De Paul could see either Leandro Paredes or Giuliano Simeone benched, despite their good performances against Uruguay.

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It is likely that Paredes will start, while Diego Simeone’s youngest son will wait for his chance on the bench. Argentina’s midfield will therefore consist of 4 names: De Paul, Paredes, Enzo Fernandez and Mac Allister.

Up front, Thiago Almada – Julian Alvarez will start in the absence of Lionel Messi.

Brazil coach Dorival Junior made four changes due to absences and two of his own accord. Alisson and Gerson have been ruled out through injury.

Meanwhile, Gabriel Magalhaes and Bruno Guimaraes are suspended, while Vanderson and Joao Pedro have been left out of the starting line-up. Instead, Dorival Júnior’s options include Bento, Andre, Murillo, Joelinton, Wesley and Matheus Cunha.

Argentina vs. Brazil expected line-up

• Argentina (4-2-3-1): Martinez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico; De Paul, Mac Allister; Simeone, Fernandez, Almada; Alvarez.
• Brazil (4-4-2): Bento; Vanderson, Marquinhos, Ortiz, Arana; Joelinton, André, Rodrygo, Raphinha; Vinicius, Pedro.