Football

Brazil vs Bolivia predicted lineups – Neymar in search of record

September 7, 2023 9:00 pm

Brazil vs Bolivia is very much a Goliath and David match up as the World Cup’s most successful side take on the team that has lost the most consecutive qualifiers on the road. Gustavo Costas is in charge of the Andean side that travel far north to the port city of Belém. In what will likely be a game of attack versus defence, here are the Brazil vs Bolivia predicted lineups.

Fernando Diniz
Photo: Lorando Labbe/Fotoarena/Sipa USA)- Photo by Icon sport

Brazil vs Bolivia predicted lineups and news

All eyes are on Neymar who is set to become the outright most prolific goalscorer for the Brazilian men’s side should he get on the scoresheet here. Ney has scored three times in four games against the Verde, although all the goals came in his first two appearances against them in 2013 and 2016. Bolivia’s hopes hinge greatly on their goalkeeper, and there is some local debate as to whether Carlos Lampe can continue. The Santa Cruz stopper is now 36 years old so there are questions as to whether it is time for a refresh.

Team news: Brazil

Interim coach Fernando Diniz is in a curious situation, after years bouncing around clubs he is enjoying success at Fluminense with his free-flowing attacking style. He now has the top job and will be a return to  some of the classic coaches in Brazil’s history such as Mario Zagallo and Vanderlei Luxemburgo.

Since announcing the squad Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has been replaced by Raphina because of injury. Manchester United star Antony was also removed from the original list, following allegations of domestic abuse that are currently under investigation. Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus was added to the squad in his place. Diniz likes to have plenty of players around the ball and constant movement in attack meaning his sides can often look like both a 4-3-3 and 4-2-4 at different stages of the game.

Brazil predicted lineup: 4-2-4

Ederson-Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, Renan Lodi-Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães -Neymar, Raphinha, Rodrygo, Richarlison

Team news: Bolivia

Bolivia probably have the hardest start of any side in the qualifiers, after this match they face world champions Argentina in La Paz. There is a feeling that Costas may want to rest some of his better players in this game to put in a bigger effort for the home match. Either way we can be sure he lines up a defensive 5-4-1 to try and hold out as long as possible in Belém.

Marcelo Martins has struggled at club level recently, playing infrequently and without a goal since May. However, Costas will need him to lead the line and his closest support will likely come from a forward that can also defend. Bolívar’s Victor Abrego could fit the bill while Jaume Cuéllar is another option for that role. 19-year-old prospect Miguel Terceros is the most exciting option but the feeling is that Costas could use him off the bench and then start against Argentina next week.

Bolivia predicted lineup: 5-4-1

Lampe-Bejarano, Haquin, Jusino, Quinteros, Fernandez-Saucedo, Cespedes, Ursino, Abrego – Martins

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