As Brazil prepares for a crucial CONMEBOL 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Chile, head coach Dorival Junior faces significant challenges with several key players unavailable due to injury. Currently sitting in fifth place with just 10 points from eight matches, the five-time World Cup winners must secure a victory to bolster their chances of qualification.
Current Situation
Brazil’s recent form has been disappointing, with defeats to Uruguay, Colombia, Argentina, and Paraguay. The team desperately needs a win against Chile to improve their standing in the qualifying table. However, Notable players, including Vinícius Júnior, Éder Militão, Alisson, Bremer, and Guilherme Arana, will miss the match due to injuries. This leaves Dorival Junior with the daunting task of reshuffling his squad.
Predicted Lineup Against Chile (4-3-3)
Here’s how Brazil’s starting XI could shape up for the match on October 10:
| Position | Player | Details |
|---|---|---|
| GK | Ederson | Ederson is set to make his first start for Brazil since October 2023, stepping in as Alisson recovers from a hamstring injury. |
| RB | Danilo | The captain has been a key figure for Brazil, playing every minute in their last six competitive matches, and is expected to lead the defense. |
| CB | Marquinhos | Earning his 92nd cap, the Paris Saint-Germain defender brings experience and leadership to the backline. |
| CB | Gabriel | After limited appearances during the Copa América 2024, Gabriel will partner with Marquinhos following Militão’s thigh injury, becoming a target on set pieces. |
| LB | Abner | Without Arana, Abner may earn his first senior cap for Brazil, stepping up in a critical position. |
| CM | André | Despite missing out on the Copa América 2024, the Wolves midfielder started in Brazil’s last two qualifying matches against Ecuador and Paraguay. |
| CM | Bruno Guimarães | Known for his precise passing and defensive capabilities, Bruno adds strength in the midfield, although he could be benched for a more attacking setup. |
| CM | Lucas Paquetá | Paquetá’s creativity will be vital in breaking down Chile’s defense, especially after Brazil’s struggle to score against Paraguay in September. |
| RW | Raphinha | Currently in excellent form with six goals in 11 matches for Barcelona, Raphinha may start on the wing or be deployed in a more central role for flexibility. |
| ST | Igor Jesus | With the striker role up for grabs, Igor Jesus appears set to lead the line, likely edging out Real Madrid’s Endrick for the starting spot. |
| LW | Rodrygo | Without Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo will start in his preferred left-wing position, after previously playing in various roles during the September break. |
Looking Ahead
As the match approaches, the Selecao must rally to secure all three points against Chile. With a reshaped lineup and the pressure to perform, Brazil’s ability to adapt and overcome their injury challenges will be crucial in their pursuit of a place at the 2026 World Cup. Football fans eagerly await this must-win encounter as Brazil seeks to regain their form and confidence on the road to qualification.
