Brazil Prepares for Decisive World Cup Qualifier Against Uruguay

In a crucial match for their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign, the Brazilian national football team is set to face Uruguay on Tuesday at 21:45 (Brasília time) at the Fonte Nova in Salvador. The encounter marks the 12th round of the South American qualifiers and the last match of the year for Brazil.

Brazil, currently in fourth place in the qualifiers with 17 points, trails Argentina, Uruguay, and Colombia. Dorival Júnior, the Brazilian coach, has announced the lineup which will feature Ederson, Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, and Abner; in midfield, Bruno Guimarães, Gerson, and Raphinha; and in attack, Vini Jr., Igor Jesus, and Savinho.

During a press briefing on the eve of the match, Dorival Júnior spoke about the necessity of securing a win to improve Brazil’s standing in the qualifications. «It is important to conclude the year on a positive note, which can reflect our improvement on the field,» he stated. Danilo, who has been reinstated after two matches on the bench, is expected to take over the captain’s role from Vanderson, who is suspended.

The Brazilian squad will face significant resistance from Uruguay, who are currently second in the standings with 19 points. Marcelo Bielsa, the Uruguayan coach, will have to make adjustments to his team due to the suspension of Nahitan Nández and the absence of Santiago Bueno due to injury. Varela, from Flamengo, is expected to fill the gap at right-back.

The historical rivalry between Brazil and Uruguay adds intensity to this encounter. The two teams have faced off 80 times, with Brazil securing 38 victories, Uruguay 21, and 21 matches ending in draws. Notably, Uruguay defeated Brazil in the 1950 World Cup final, a moment still etched in the memories of football enthusiasts from both nations.

The match will be broadcasted on Globo (open TV) and sportv (cable), with streaming available on GloboPlay for subscribers. Football analysts have been debating whether Brazil is experiencing its lowest period in recent history, as the team’s form has raised concerns among fans and commentators alike.