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#3 Brazil’s static midfield to have trouble breaching Colombia’s low block
Brazil, who have picked up 31 points from 11 World Cup Qualifiers this season, is one of the favorites for the prestigious trophy in 2022. Their sharp attack and mean defense more than justifies the nomination, but their stagnant midfield is considerably behind the competition.
The Selecao midfield can pass the world around just fine but they do not have the attacking flair to carve the meanest defenses open. As a team, Colombia are not as talented as Brazil and will also miss some of their key players. However, Colombia’s knack for sitting deep and soaking up the pressure could make life difficult for the hosts.
Philippe Coutinho’s return to the team could be a turning point for Brazil. On his day, he can unlock any defense at will, and the onus could be on him to unlock a stubborn Colombia side on Thursday.
#2 Gabriel Jesus and Neymar to keep Colombia on their toes
Brazil’s unimaginative midfield often puts added pressure on the attackers. Thankfully, Brazil skipper Neymar knows just how to thrive under insurmountable pressure. When fit, the Paris Saint-Germain man can easily stake his claim as one of the best in the business.
He is arguably the best dribbler in the world, can create key chances all night long, and is also a potent goalscorer. Colombia will look to keep him contained, but we are not sure they are up for it.
Unlike Neymar, Gabriel Jesus has not had the luck of featuring in every Manchester City game. However, with Roberto Firmino missing out with an injury, Jesus is set to lead the line for Brazil against Colombia.
Jesus has not exactly been scoring for fun this season, but his overall gameplay has been quite impressive. We expect him to link up well with Neymar and even get himself on the scoresheet against Los Cafeteros.
#1 Brazil to win narrowly against Colombia
Colombia and Brazil are two of the most respected footballing nations in the world. They have plenty of firepower at their disposal and we expect both to put on a spirited show on Thursday.
However, judging by their recent performances, it is hard not to deem Brazil as the favorites for Thursday’s clash. The hosts have not only scored the most goals (26) in the Qualifiers but have also conceded the fewest (4). They could have some trouble breaching Colombia, but we expect the five-time World Cup winners to have the last laugh.
We predict a 2-1 win for the hosts in their 12th World Cup Qualifier, against Colombia on Thursday.
