Brazil’s 1-1 draw with Colombia in the last match of the Copa America group stage prevented them from achieving their goal of qualifying as leaders. Their passage to the quarterfinals as second sees them cross paths with Uruguay, one of the best teams in this continental competition.
To add to the bad news, he will have to face this crucial match without his star player. Vinicius earned a yellow card for bringing down James Rodríguez and will have to serve a one-match ban for reaching the limit of warnings.
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The striker, one of the favourites to win the next Ballon d’Or, started all three group stage matches. His absence forces coach Dorival Júnior to look for a replacement in the Seleção’s large squad.
Se vienen los Cuartos de Final de la CONMEBOL Copa América™ ✨ pic.twitter.com/nTf5m7Yh9b
— CONMEBOL Copa América™️ (@CopaAmerica) July 3, 2024
One option is the introduction of Endrick, who has had few minutes of action so far. Although he can alternate positions, the player who will play for Real Madrid tends to play more in the centre, which would force Rodrygo and Raphinha, likely teammates in the starting eleven, to occupy the wings.
Evanilson, a pure penalty area number 9 who had a great season at Porto, could also come in. This would definitely lead to his two offensive partners playing on the wings, without so much movement in the positions.
The coach also has the option of putting on a winger and having Rodrygo positioned closer to the penalty spot. If that idea goes ahead, Savinho has a chance of entering the starting lineup, having played more minutes in this competition than Gabriel Martinelli or Pepê.
The option of changing formation
If a change of formation is imposed against an opponent as offensive and quick in transitions as Uruguay, Dorival Júnior would have to replace Vini with a midfielder. If that is the case, the options are the entry of Andreas Pereira, Douglas Luiz or Éderson.
