Brazil aims to secure a knockout phase spot in the Copa America with just a draw against Colombia on Tuesday at Levi's Stadium in San Francisco.
Historically, Brazil has dominated this matchup (21 wins, 11 draws, and just four defeats). However, Colombia won their last encounter (a World Cup qualifier in November), and two of their three other victories came in the Copa America group stages.
Tonight, Colombia aims for back-to-back wins against Brazil for the first time, following their memorable 2-1 victory in a World Cup qualifier last November.
After a lackluster 0-0 draw against Costa Rica, Brazil bounced back with a comfortable 4-1 victory over Paraguay, nearly securing their spot in the quarter-finals. A draw against Colombia in California will be enough for progression, but the Selecao aims to top the group to avoid facing Uruguay in the quarter-finals.
Following a decisive 4-1 win over Paraguay, Brazil sits second in Group D. Despite early missed chances and a penalty, Dorival Junior's squad found their rhythm, marking their biggest win since September 2023. This victory ended a four-game winless streak against CONMEBOL teams, putting them one point away from advancing for the 14th time in 15 Copa America appearances.
Despite recent underwhelming performances, Dorival Júnior's squad remains unbeaten in 2024 (three wins and three draws), bolstering their confidence.
Brazil may rest star forward Vinicius Junior, and with him, Eder Militao and Wendell are also at risk of suspension due to yellow cards.
Brazil's starting XI against Paraguay saw two changes. Wendell reclaimed his place at left-back over Guilherme Arana, while Savio replaced Raphinha and eventually scored his first international goal.
Los Cafeteros, on a high after a dominant 3-0 victory over Costa Rica, secured their Copa America quarter-final spot and extended their unbeaten run to 25 matches (20 wins and five draws).
All in all, their ten consecutive wins mark them as strong contenders for the Copa crown. A draw will ensure they top the group, but they are likely aiming for victory to maintain momentum.
A win on matchday three would see them top the group with nine points for the first time since 2019. Notably, Colombia has yet to concede in the first half since a comeback victory over Mexico last December and has won their last three matches after conceding first.
Furthermore, The Tricolour reached the semi-finals in two of the last three tournaments and is keen to make a statement.
Captain James Rodriguez was substituted in the victory against Costa Rica, but it was only a precaution.
Meanwhile, three Colombians need to be cautious, as they will miss the quarter-finals if booked tonight. Jefferson Lerma, Richard Rios, and Jhon Cordoba are currently on one yellow card.
With Colombia already through and Brazil likely to advance, both teams might play cautiously to avoid injuries and suspensions. Expect a strategic yet entertaining match featuring promising young talents for both sides.
Remarkably, Brazil has kept just two clean sheets in its last 11 competitive matches, and the Colombians look capable of exposing its vulnerable defending.
