In the 0-0 draw against Venezuela, Mano Menezes’ side were wasteful with the few clear cut chances they were able to create. Alexandre Pato, Robinho and Neymar all had decent opportunities, but all failed to convert the kind of chances they would normally finish with ease.
It will be even tougher against Paraguay, who have kept six clean sheets in their last seven games. They will also pose a greater attacking threat than Venezuela, with the likes of Roque Santa Cruz and Lucas Barrios up front. Gerardo Martino has promised that his side will attack, and they could cause many problems for Brazil.
Menezes has not given much away about the starting line-up. The majority of the team is likely to remain the same as against Venezuela, but two changes that could be made are Elano in for Ramires and Lucas Moura replacing Robinho.
Defeat is simply not an option for Brazil. It could mean an embarrassing early exit, and the Seleção must bounce back from the poor display against Venezuela with an improved performance. The likes of Neymar and Pato need to show why they are receiving so much hype, and start banging in the goals.
Kick-off is at 20:00 UK time. Join Sambafoot for live minute-by-minute updates of the game!
Probable line-ups:
Brazil: Julio Cesar; Dani Alves, Lucio, Thiago Silva, Andre Santos; Lucas Leiva, Ramires (Elano), Ganso; Robinho (Lucas Moura), Alexandre Pato, Neymar.
Paraguay: Villar; Piris, Da Silva, Veron, Torres; Barreto, Ortigoza, Riveros, Estigarribia; Santa Cruz, Barrios.
