Brazil to do a professional job on Paraguay
The group leaders in South American World Cup qualifying face the trip to tricky Paraguay who have more than held their own in the opening exchanges of the campaign. They took a respectable point via a goalless draw in Uruguay last time out, keeping their spot in the automatic qualification spots on goal difference, having picked up seven points from their opening five. Brazil come into the match as strong favourites boasting a 100% record so far, they do not have the sprinkling of stars as in generations gone by however Tite has built a well oiled machine seeing them take the favourites tag for the upcoming Copa America.
Preparation
After a lot of debate and concern Copa America is going ahead, therefore giving more importance to this match as a dress rehearsal. Both sides have favourable opening matches in the competition and therefore this should be a tightly fought contest. With Neymar such a crucial member of Selecao it is likely he will be wrapped up in cotton wool should Brazil take the lead early, with the Paris Saint-Germain attacker expected to play in a key role in their defence of the crown.
With the Copa America on both of these sides’ minds a low scoring encounter looks all the more likely, however it does present a stage for fringe players to throw their name into the hat for a greater amount of playing time in the tournament. Given this we may see some inspired Brazilian performances, as they look to shine in such a large pool of players. Tite is sure to have some positive selection headaches moving forward, but the pressure will be firmly on him to repeat their 2019 success.
Goals?
Opposing goals appeals, particularly as Paraguay have only scored more than once in one of their last four and an energy preserving display may suit both sides.
- Paraguay have scored in seven of ten.
- Paraguay have conceded in six of ten.
- Paraguay have seen both teams score in five of ten.
- Paraguay have seen over 2.5 goals in three of ten.
- Brazil have scored in eight of ten.
- Brazil have conceded in five of ten.
- Brazil have seen both teams score in three of ten.
- Brazil have seen over 2.5 goals in three of ten.
Avoiding defeat would be a great achievement for Paraguay here but with such a depth of talent in the Brazil squad, they should be able to get over the line.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
A nice odds against winner to start the week, 2-0 Brazil.