The Seleção are aiming to bounce back and reclaim their place at the top of South American football this summer.
Brazil have faced a tough year. Following their quarter-final exit to Croatia in the 2022 World Cup the five-time world champions have been plagued by crises. Thus, leading to doubts about their chances in the 2024 Copa America.
Despite these struggles, Brazil’s squad boasts an impressive array of attacking talent. However, they need to regain their form after a disappointing end to 2023 which saw them lose three consecutive World Cup qualifiers.
Fernando Diniz was dismissed due to this poor performance and veteran Dorival Júnior has stepped in as the new manager. Brazil had shown interest in Carlo Ancelotti but he committed to staying with Real Madrid.
Dorival Júnior quickly named his squad for Copa America initially selecting 23 players on May 10. He later added three more names on May 19 following CONMEBOL’s decision to expand the roster sizes for the tournament. Who will step up and help Brazil achieve glory?
Let’s have a look at the strongest predicted lineup for Brazil ahead of the Copa America 2024.
Predicted lineup of Brazil National Football Team playing in Copa America 2024
The biggest uncertainty for Brazil as Dorival Júnior shapes his squad is the choice of central striker.
Endrick might have secured his spot in the starting lineup after scoring in friendly matches against England and Spain in March.
However, he needs to prove his fitness after being stretchered off during his final game for Palmeiras in May.
Dorival Júnior also faces decisions regarding the full-back positions but the rest of the team appears settled assuming no further injuries occur.
Brazil Best XI (4-3-3): Alisson Becker(GK); Yan Couto, Gabriel Magalhães, Marquinhos (C), Guilherme Arana; Bruno Guimarães, Douglas Luiz, Lucas Paquetá; Rodrygo, Endrick, Vinicius Junior
Also Read: 2024 COPA America Complete Guide: Teams, Groups, Format, Host Country, Venues, and Schedules
Team Strengths
- Talent Pool and European Experience – Brazil boasts a squad filled with players who compete at the highest levels in Europe’s top leagues, particularly in the Premier League. This exposure enhances their tactical and technical abilities providing a strong foundation for success.
- Direct and Dynamic Attack – Under manager Dorival Júnior Brazil has adopted a more direct approach in attack, utilizing the pace and skill of players like Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr. to exploit defensive vulnerabilities. Their offensive strategy focuses on quick transitions and penetrating runs, which can be devastating against opponents.
- High Pressing Game – Historically known for their ability to press high and disrupt opponents’ build-up play Brazil maintains a high PPDA (Passes Allowed Per Defensive Action) rate indicating their intent to win the ball back quickly and apply pressure in key areas of the pitch.
Team Weaknesses
- Defensive Vulnerabilities – Brazil has struggled defensively in recent times conceding more goals than expected in both World Cup qualifiers and friendlies. Their defensive structure has been inconsistent switching between deep defensive lines against strong teams and higher presses against weaker opposition which has not always been effective.
- Lack of Creativity in Possession – Despite maintaining significant possession in matches Brazil has shown a lack of creativity in their passing and attacking play. They often resort to lateral passes rather than making incisive passes into dangerous areas which can hinder their ability to break down resilient defenses.
- Set-Piece and Defensive Transition Issues – Brazil’s aggressive style of play especially in quick transitions sometimes leaves them vulnerable to counterattacks and set-piece situations. They have been prone to conceding penalties and committing fouls to halt opposition attacks which could be exploited by disciplined teams in the Copa America.
Brazil Copa America 2024 Key Players to Watch Out For
- Vinicius Junior – Vinicius Junior has been a standout performer for Brazil, particularly in the absence of Neymar. His impressive goal-scoring record with Real Madrid and his ability to deliver in crucial moments make him a vital asset to Brazil’s forward line. With his pace, dribbling skills, and knack for scoring goals Vinicius Junior will be pivotal in Brazil’s attacking strategy.
- Endrick – Despite his young age (17) Endrick has already made waves in Brazilian football by playing for Palmeiras and is set to join Real Madrid post-Copa America. His inclusion in the squad highlights his potential impact as an impact substitute or even a starter depending on his performances. His skill and future promise make him an exciting prospect to watch during the tournament.
- Lucas Paquetá – Lucas Paquetá has emerged as a key player in Brazil’s midfield, especially with his ability to score goals from midfield positions. With Neymar absent Paquetá’s tenacity and goal-scoring prowess have become even more crucial. His role in controlling the midfield battle and contributing to Brazil’s attacking play will be essential for their success in Copa America.
Conclusion
Brazil may not be in the finest form heading into this tournament, but it would be folly to rule them out of being amongst the final contenders. First, though, they must negotiate their qualifying group, and there have been signs of optimism since Dorival’s arrival.
The Copa América serves as the perfect opportunity for Brazil to remind the footballing world of the quality they possess.
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