Copa America 2024: All details as inform Uruguay take on Vinícius-less Brazil in quarter-finals

This Sunday promises an exciting showdown as Uruguay take on Brazil in the quarter-final of the Copa América at Allegiant Stadium.

Both teams have storied histories and a wealth of talent, making this clash a must-watch for football enthusiasts. Here’s an in-depth look at both sides as they prepare to battle for a spot in the semi-finals.

Uruguay enters this match with high spirits, having won all their Group C matches and earning nine points. They have exceeded expectations, showcasing their potential as strong contenders for the title. Under Marcelo Bielsa’s guidance, Uruguay has adopted an exciting and courageous playing style, characterized by fluid and dynamic football.

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The team’s blend of experienced players like Luis Suárez and emerging talents like Federico Valverde and Darwin Núñez has created a well-rounded squad capable of adapting to different situations. Although Uruguay faces a challenging path to the title, including a tough quarter-final match against Brazil, the team is determined to win the Copa América again, having last lifted the trophy in 2011.

Brazil’s tournament journey has been underwhelming, securing only five points in Group D and finishing second. Their performances have failed to impress, and the team appears to be in a state of turmoil since their unexpected World Cup exit in 2022. Manager Dorival Júnior has struggled to bring out the best in his talented squad, with star players like Vinícius Júnior failing to replicate their club form.

Brazil’s overall team cohesion and attacking prowess have been lacking, leading to a string of uninspiring results. The team’s last major triumph was the 2019 Copa América, and they have since failed to match that success.

Recent performances have raised concerns about their ability to compete at the highest level, making the quarter-final clash against Uruguay a crucial test. A win could be the catalyst for a turnaround, but it will require a significant upswing in performance.

The recent head-to-head record between Brazil and Uruguay has been skewed in Brazil’s favour with four wins in their last five meetings. However, Uruguay’s impressive 2-0 win in their most recent encounter, a World Cup qualifier just nine months ago, will have instilled a sense of belief in their ability to compete against their rivals.

This quarter-final showdown presents a crucial opportunity for both teams to make a statement. Uruguay is seeking to capitalize on their strong start to the tournament and edge closer to their first Copa América title in over a decade.

Meanwhile, Brazil is desperate to turn their fortunes around and reaffirm their status as a dominant force in South American football. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter, pitting Uruguay’s attacking prowess under Bielsa against Brazil’s individual talent and determination to bounce back.

URUGUAY vs BRAZIL TEAM NEWS

Marcelo Bielsa has maintained a consistent starting lineup throughout Uruguay’s campaign, suggesting a similar team will take the field in this quarter-final. However, the availability of Maximiliano Araújo remains uncertain due to the head injury he sustained in the previous match against the USA, which may force Bielsa to make an adjustment to his usual lineup.

Brazil has been dealt a significant setback with Vinícius Júnior ruled out of the quarter-final due to suspension, after accumulating two yellow cards in the tournament, including one in the final group stage match against Colombia.

This development may pave the way for Endrick, the talented teenager, to make his first start of the tournament, potentially alongside Rodrygo, who might be shifted to the left flank to accommodate the young newcomer.

A starting spot at left-back is up for grabs, with Guilherme Arana aiming to dislodge Wendell, while Douglas Luiz, Andreas Pereira, Ederson, and Joao Gomes – are engaged in a fierce competition for a starting berth in central midfield, adding an extra layer of intrigue to Brazil’s team selection.

URUGUAY PREDICTED STARTING LINE-UP: 

Rochet, Nández, R. Araújo, M. Olivera, Viña, Ugarte, Valverde, Pellistri, De la Cruz, C. Olivera; Núñez.

BRAZIL PREDICTED STARTING LINE-UP: 

Álisson; Danilo, Militão, Marquinhos, Wendell; Guimarães, Gomes; Raphinha, Paquetá, Rodrygo; Endrick.

URUGUAY VS BRAZIL TIME AND VENUE

Kick-off date is Friday 7th July, 2024

Kick-off time is 2:00AM (WAT)

Venue: Allegiant Stadium

Referee: Dario Herrera

URUGUAY vs BRAZIL PREDICTION 

The stage is set for a thrilling encounter in Las Vegas, as Brazil and Uruguay clash in a match that could produce plenty of goals, given their recent history. Eight of their last ten meetings have seen three or more goals scored, and with Brazil’s attacking struggles and the absence of Vinicius Junior, Uruguay’s current form and momentum could lead to a shock result, potentially sending them to the semi-finals.

URUGUAY 3 vs BRAZIL 1

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