By Brazil and Ecuador are set to clash in a high-stakes World Cup qualifier, with both teams grappling with significant roster challenges due to injuries and suspensions.
The five-time World Cup champions, Brazil, face a notable void in their attack with the absence of Neymar. The Al-Hilal forward continues his recovery from a severe anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained in October 2023, leaving a significant gap in the Seleção’s offensive lineup.
Brazil’s squad has been further depleted by the withdrawals of Borussia Dortmund’s Yan Couto and Manchester City’s Savinho. Both players, who were teammates at Girona last season, have been forced to pull out of coach Dorival’s squad due to undisclosed injuries.
In a bold move, Dorival has called up 17-year-old Palmeiras sensation Estevao Willian. The young attacker, already set for a high-profile move to Chelsea next summer, could make his international debut in this crucial qualifier.
With Barcelona winger Raphinha sidelined due to suspension, Dorival is considering an all-Real Madrid forward line. This potent attacking trio could feature Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior, and the highly-touted Endrick, showcasing the depth of Brazil’s offensive talent pool.
Ecuador, meanwhile, faces its own set of challenges. The team will be without defender Christian Ramirez, who was forced to withdraw after sustaining an ankle injury during Ferencvaros’ Europa League qualifying match against Borac. This loss in the backline could prove significant against Brazil’s formidable attack.
However, Ecuador receives a timely boost with the return of Brighton & Hove Albion’s Pervis Estupinan. The dynamic fullback, who has been absent from international duty since March 2023 due to injury, is expected to slot directly into the starting lineup, providing both defensive stability and attacking impetus from the left flank.
Leading Ecuador’s offensive charge will be their all-time top scorer, Enner Valencia. The veteran striker, with an impressive tally of 41 international goals, will look to exploit any weaknesses in Brazil’s defense and add to his record-breaking goal count.
Possible starting lineups:
Brazil (4-3-3): Alisson; Danilo, Militao, Gabriel, Arana; Andre, Guimaraes, Paqueta; Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior, Endrick
Ecuador (4-3-3): Galindez; Preciado, Hincapie, Pacho, Estupinan; Caicedo, Franco, Gruezo; Paez, Sarmiento, Valencia
This World Cup qualifier not only carries significant implications for both teams’ paths to the tournament but also serves as a litmus test for their depth and tactical flexibility. Brazil’s star-studded squad will aim to overcome the absence of Neymar and assert their dominance, while Ecuador, buoyed by home advantage and the return of key players, will look to cause an upset against the South American giants.
The match promises to be a fascinating tactical battle, with both coaches forced to adapt their strategies in light of the personnel changes. As the road to the World Cup intensifies, this fixture could prove pivotal in shaping the qualifying landscape in South America.
