Brazil v Colombia – Preview

Two South American nations go head to head at Fortaleza on Friday trying to reach the last four of the 2014 World Cup. Host nation Brazil are undoubtedly favourites but the form of Colombia throughout this competition has left everyone impressed and fans can expect a intriguing battle tomorrow evening. Luiz Felipe Scolari’s team only […]
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sambafoot_admin
2014-07-03 21:58:00

Two South American nations go head to head at Fortaleza on Friday trying to reach the last four of the 2014 World Cup.

Host nation Brazil are undoubtedly favourites but the form of Colombia throughout this competition has left everyone impressed and fans can expect a intriguing battle tomorrow evening.

Luiz Felipe Scolari’s team only just sneaked into the quarter-finals after defeating Chile 3-2 on penalties after the two teams couldn’t be separated after extra time.

Chile came agonizingly close to knocking the hosts out in the final minute of extra time as they hit the crossbar and Neymar and co will hope that is a sign that fortunate is with them.

Meanwhile Colombia progressed versus Uruguay thanks to two goals from their star man, and arguably player of the tournament, James Rodríguez.

The 22-year-old Monaco playmaker has been sensational notching five goals and two assists to help the South Americans win all four of their matches so far.

While Colombia boss José Pekerman has a fairly settled team and no injuries or suspensions to worry about, Seleção have several concerns.

Neymar will almost certainly not be 100% fit while Luiz Gustavo, one of Brazil’s best players in the tournament, is out suspended.

It has been suggested that Paulinho will replace him while other reports have gathered insisting Scolari could switch to a 3-5-2 formation to try and spark his team into life.

Brazil’s quest for a sixth world crown sees them play their continental neighbours Colombia in Fortaleza this evening at 2100 BST, and you can keep up to date with all the action here at Sambafoot throughout the proceedings.

Predicted starting XI: Júlio César, Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, David Luiz, Marcelo, Fernandinho, Paulinho, Oscar, Neymar, Hulk, Fred.