As Brazil continue their journey through the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, the spotlight turns to Casemiro, who marked his international return against Ecuador with a commanding, vintage performance. After nearly a year away from the national team, the veteran midfielder reminded fans and critics of his enduring quality, and is widely expected to retain his starting role in Brazil’s clash against Paraguay.
Seleção boss Carlo Ancelotti has a fully fit squad to choose from following the Ecuador match, but changes could still be on the horizon. Manchester United winger Antony and Wolves striker Matheus Cunha are both pushing for starting berths, which could see Estevão Willian and Richarlison drop to the bench. These potential adjustments aim to boost Brazil’s attacking output in a campaign that has seen moments of inconsistency.
Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior remains a focal point of fan debate. Despite being one of the most electrifying players in club football, his form for the national team has drawn criticism. With just one goal to his name in the qualifiers — a dramatic winner against Colombia in March — the pressure is on for Vini to produce a game-changing performance and silence his doubters on home soil.
Meanwhile, Paraguay come into the fixture with momentum following their matchday 15 victory over Uruguay. Head coach Gustavo Alfaro has a relatively healthy squad at his disposal, and no major injury concerns were reported after the Uruguay clash — allowing him to stick with a settled lineup.
Forward Antonio Sanabria, Paraguay’s top scorer with four goals in qualifying, will be eager to get back on the scoresheet after a quiet outing last time. Julio Enciso, however, stepped up with a late penalty to seal the win, registering his third goal of the campaign. The Brighton youngster is quickly becoming one of Paraguay's most reliable threats in the final third.
Key Talking Points:
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Casemiro’s leadership and midfield stability return.
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Ancelotti weighing lineup changes to sharpen Brazil's attack.
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Vinícius Júnior under scrutiny as he seeks form on international stage.
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Paraguay boast a settled, injury-free squad after their recent win.
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Julio Enciso and Antonio Sanabria remain the attacking threats to watch.
Brazil vs Paraguay: Casemiro Returns, Vinicius Under Pressure | WC Qualifier Preview
Casemiro returns for Brazil as Vinicius Jr. faces mounting pressure. Paraguay aim to build on their win over Uruguay in a crucial World Cup qualifier.
Brazil vs Paraguay preview, Casemiro Brazil return, Vinicius Jr Brazil criticism, Julio Enciso Paraguay, Ancelotti Brazil squad, World Cup qualifiers South America
Brazil 2-0paraguay
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