Possible Brazil lineup vs Colombia
Today we here at Soccersouls in our special feature to the buildup of the quarter final clash, provide our readers with the stronges Brazil lineup to play against the impressive Colombian outfit who look to beat anyone when on full throttle.
Goalkeeper:
Julio Cesar was Brazil’s saviour in the penalty shootout against Chile in the round of sixteen encounter as the former Inter Milan goalkeeper also survived by the skin of the teeth at the very end of extra time against a relentless Chilean side. Cesar, however needs to be at his best once against continental rivals Colombia who look to crush any side on their way in the showpiece event so far. Cesar will have to be on his toes against the Los Cafeteros who have so far hit the back of the net 11 times in four games roughly averaging 3 goals per game.
Defenders:
While Falcao’s absence haven’t hit Jose Pekerman’s side one bit, young James Rodriguez has been simply immaculate while Porto striker Jackson Martinez is looking top form at the right time. Juan Cuadrdao too has been simply brilliant on the wings while Victo Ibarbao too has dazzled in Sambaland. The Colombian outfit will look to stretch the Brazilian defense, which look vulnerable against direct attacking sides and can wilt under severe pressure, also being able to self implode in crucial stages, which doesn’t augur well for Luis Felipe Scholari. Barcelona’s Dani Alves with his immense work rate will start on the right looking forward to barge forward while Real Madrid’s Marcelo mans the left flank. David Luiz too needs to make sure he doesn’t lose his markers like PSG captain Thiago Silva will again be the leader for the Selecao.
Midfield:
If Brazil are to win the encounter, they need to make sure that they aren’t overrun in midfield. Luiz Gustavo’s absence will be a big blow, but Fernandinho is expected to take over the duties from the immaculate Wolfsburg midfielder. Gustavo picked up his second yellow card of the tournament against Chile, forcing him to stay out of this one.
Paulinho could return taking his place in the middle of the park, forming the double pivot with the Manchester City star. Chelsea’ Ramires is a better option and it would be interesting to see with whom Scholari goes with. Zenit’s Hulk starts on the right with the flag bearer Neymar set to overcome his injury debacle to take his place on the left. Neymar would be starting and will look to dart inside with his pacey runs but it is expected that Pekerman will come out with a plan to stop the Barcelona man. Chelsea’s Oscar completes the attacking midfield triumvirate as he looks set to play the number ten to perfection.
Strikeforce:
With Fred’s contribution being bare minimum, it was expected that Scolari might turn to Jo last time around, but it was Fred who got the nod but failed to impress yet again. The Question still remains whether Jo will make a start in the World Cup. The Selecao are expected to line up in their 4-2-3-1 system with a more attacking 4-3-3 while being in possession.
