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Defensive Midfielder - Casemiro (Real Madrid)
One of the best defensive midfielders in world football, Casemiro is a nailed-on starter for Brazil in the semi-final of Copa America 2021.
Casemiro arrived at Copa America 2021 on the back of another good season with Real Madrid and has carried that form into the tournament. The 29-year-old is an aggressive midfielder with a strong defensive presence and is capable of adding a few goals with long-range shots too.
The former Porto loanee is excellent at what he does, and barring any unfortunate injury, Casemiro should be one of the first names in the Brazil teamsheet.
Central Midfielder - Fred (Manchester United)
Fred has featured regularly for Brazil at Copa America 2021 and has a good chance of starting against Peru in the semi-final.
The midfielder was one of Manchester United's most important players last season and enjoyed his best campaign with the Red Devils. Utilised predominantly as part of a midfield pivot by Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Fred thrived under the Norwegian during the 2020-21 season.
Brazil boss Tite clearly rates Fred highly and has given him plenty of opportunities at Copa America 2021. The 28-year-old is left-footed, which is an added advantage.
Central Midfielder - Lucas Paqueta (Lyon)
Lucas Paqueta scored Brazil's sole goal against Chile in the quarter-final and could be awarded with a start against Peru as well.
Paqueta enjoyed arguably the best season of his career in 2020-21, making 27 starts in Ligue 1 for Lyon, scoring nine goals and providing five assists. After a disappointing spell with AC Milan, the midfielder seems to be enjoying his football in France and deserved to be in Brazil's Copa America 2021 squad.
The 23-year-old will add creativity to Brazil's midfield if he does start. Paqueta is capable of playing further forward, if needed, as well.
Other options: Everton Ribeiro (Flamengo), Douglas Luiz (Aston Villa), Fabinho (Liverpool).
Also Read: Copa America 2021: 5 best forwards in the tournament so far.
