Brazil is gearing up for the 2024 Copa America under the guidance of Dorival Junior, marking a transitional phase in their elite men’s international football journey. Dorival stepped in early this year following a tumultuous end to 2023, marred by three consecutive FIFA World Cup qualifying defeats, including a bitter loss to arch-rivals Argentina on home turf.
March brought a more positive turn during the international break, with Brazil securing a notable victory against England at Wembley and later thrilling fans with a spirited draw against Spain. Amidst these performances, all eyes were on teenager Endrick, whose dazzling display hinted at a bright future, soon to be enhanced by a move to Real Madrid.
However, the Selecao faces challenges as they prepare for the Copa America. Neymar’s absence due to injury, along with the omission of stalwart Casemiro and the retirement of veterans like Thiago Silva and Alex Sandro, suggests a potential new-look lineup in the iconic yellow-and-green jerseys. Yet, amidst these changes, familiar faces will still feature prominently, ensuring continuity and experience in Brazil’s quest for Copa glory.
As Brazil readies itself for the continental showdown, the blend of emerging talents and seasoned campaigners promises an intriguing narrative of renewal and resilience in one of football’s most storied teams.
How will Brazil line up at Copa America?
Brazil is heading into the 2024 Copa America with a lineup that reflects both continuity and adaptation in the absence of key players. Neymar’s continued recovery from a serious ankle injury means he’ll miss the tournament, alongside Casemiro, who was overlooked for selection, and goalkeeper Ederson, sidelined by a fractured eye socket sustained in a recent club match.
Coach Dorival Junior, who favored a 4-3-3 formation during March friendlies against England and Spain, is expected to stick with this setup for the Copa America.
Goalkeeper: Alisson, the stalwart from Liverpool, remains Brazil’s first-choice goalkeeper and is set to retain his position despite Ederson’s absence.
Defence: Marquinhos, the dependable presence from Paris Saint-Germain, is a certainty at center-back. His partner is likely to be either Arsenal’s Gabriel or Real Madrid’s Eder Militao, although Militao’s recovery from an ACL injury may influence the decision.
In the full-back positions, Juventus’ Danilo is anticipated to start on the right, while Porto’s Wendell, who featured prominently in the March friendlies, should line up on the left.
Midfield: With Casemiro out and Lucas Paqueta facing legal issues, Brazil’s midfield setup is undergoing adjustments. Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes is expected to anchor the midfield, likely alongside Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz, who could fill in for Casemiro. The third midfield spot might see competition between Wolves’ Joao Gomes and Atalanta’s Ederson.
Attack: Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, having excelled in the club season, emerges as Brazil’s leading offensive threat in Neymar’s absence. He will likely be flanked by his Madrid teammate Rodrygo and Barcelona’s Raphinha, forming a potent front three. Meanwhile, young talent Endrick is poised to make an impact off the bench.
Predicted Starting Lineup: Formation: 4-3-3
Starting XI (right to left):
- Goalkeeper: Alisson
- Defence: Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Wendell
- Midfield: Bruno Guimaraes, Douglas Luiz, Ederson
- Attack: Raphinha, Rodrygo, Vinicius
This lineup blends experience with emerging talent, aiming to propel Brazil through the challenges of the Copa America while adapting to the absence of key figures like Neymar and Casemiro.
Brazil Copa America 2024 match schedule
| Date | Match Type | Opponent | Venue | Time (ET) |
| June 24 | Group Stage MD 1 | Costa Rica | SoFi Stadium, CA | 9 p.m |
| June 28 | Group Stage MD 2 | Paraguay | Allegiant Stadium, NV | 9 p.m. |
| July 3 | Group Stage MD 3 | Colombia | Levi’s Stadium, CA | 9 p.m. |
