Brazil and Paraguay will face each other at the Neo Quimica Arena for a crucial game that could boost their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Here are the predicted lineups for the game.
After a frustrating draw in his debut as Brazil’s head coach, Carlo Ancelotti now faces a crucial opportunity. He has the chance to climb the CONMEBOL standings and ease the early pressure. Meanwhile, Paraguay arrive in strong form, having gone nine consecutive matches without a loss. As a result, a highly competitive match is expected. Both teams are pushing to improve their position in the World Cup Qualifiers.
After failing in the 2024 Copa America, Gustavo Alfaro changed Paraguay’s course. He restored their identity on the field. He also rebuilt his players’ trust in the national team project. Moreover, he brought in a new wave of young talent. Leading that group is Julio Enciso, who quickly became the face of the team. His influence has been key to Paraguay’s impressive level.
Carlo Ancelotti has taken the most daring step of his career. He became Brazil’s first foreign coach in decades. His appointment triggered major changes. One of his first moves was recalling Carlos Casemiro. He also introduced a flexible playing style. His Brazil adapts to every opponent, showing his trademark tactical vision. In addition, he placed faith in two young stars: 18-year-old Estevao Willian and 21-year-old Andrey Santos.
Despite his short time with the team, Ancelotti must prove Brazil’s attacking strength. He needs to capitalize on Vinicius Junior’s top form. At Real Madrid, Ancelotti helped Vinicius reach his peak. Now, fans expect that same magic on the international stage. With that in mind, both teams will aim to put their best lineups on the pitch.
Brazil predicted lineup vs Paraguay
Unlike the game against Ecuador, Ancelotti will bring back Raphinha, one of the world’s most in-form players right now. The winger missed the last match due to yellow card accumulation. However, Brazil now face a team that defends well and plays a very physical style. Therefore, Ancelotti could go with a more mature starting eleven.
Considering the latter, Brazil’s lineup could look as follows: Alisson Becker; Vanderson, Marquinhos, Alexsandro Ribeiro, Alex Sandro; Carlos Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes, Gerson Santos; Raphinha, Matheus Cunha, Vinicius Jr.
Paraguay predicted lineup vs Brazil
Coming off an impressive win over Uruguay and currently sitting third in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers, Paraguay could stick with the same starting eleven. Gustavo Alfaro is likely to favor a compact defensive setup with a quick counter-attacking strategy. In that approach, Julio Enciso stands out as the key figure, the team’s most dynamic and creative threat.
Paraguay’s potential lineup to face Brazil may look like this: Roberto Fernandez; Juan Caceres, Gustavo Gomez, Omar Alderete, Junior Alonso; Ramon Sosa, Andres Cubas, Mathias Villasanti, Julio Enciso; Miguel Almiron, Antonio Sanabria.
How to watch Brazil vs Paraguay in the USA
The 2026 World Cup Qualifier between Brazil and Paraguay on Matchday 16 will be available to viewers in the United States via Fubo (7-day free trial).
From: bolavip.com
