In the last World Cup qualifiers, Colombia missed out on the trip to Qatar, a huge disappointment for a nation used to seeing their team among the best. Despite being unbeaten in their last 15 matches with ten wins and five draws, Nestor Lorenzo’s side recently had a run of three consecutive draws in the CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Next, they will face the Brazil team, whose performance was beyond expectations. After a 1-1 draw at home against Venezuela and a painful defeat in Uruguay, the Selecao are cringing in the table. The team lacks chemistry and feels more like a bunch of individuals than cohesive players. The defensive problems that surfaced during the Qatar World Cup remain and there is a notable absence of playmakers who seem ready to step up in Neymar’s absence.
But as the Brazilians prepare to face Colombia, they will be looking to keep their opponents at bay. If not, then the Colombians can jump in the order.
News from the Colombian team:
Hernández joins Mosquera on the Colombian team, making them two MLS players. The 22-year-old centre-back, on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers, made his debut last month, coming on late against Uruguay and starting in a goalless draw with Ecuador. Cucho, the Columbus No. 9 and record signing from Watford FC, is watching his first World Cup qualifiers. With two international goals against Costa Rica in 2018, he hopes to contribute more after his recent performance against the United States in January.
News from the Brazilian team:
Brazil, five-time world champions, face challenges in the current qualifiers. A 2-0 loss to Uruguay and a surprising 1-1 draw with Venezuela in October raised concerns. Star forward Neymar’s torn left ACL adds to the pressure, leaving Brazil without their best player for key games against Colombia and Argentina on November 21. Despite these setbacks, Brazil is third in second place in the Conmebol table. They have an impressive record of never missing any of the previous 22 World Cups and are likely to secure a place in 2026.
Colombia Predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Montero; Mosquera, Cuesta, Sanchez, Machado; Uribe, Castano; Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz; Borre Maury
Brazil Predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Alisson; Marquinhos, Bremer, Gabriel M., Augusto; Bruno G, Luiz; Rodrygo, Martinelli, Vinicius; Jesus