Brazil and Uruguay Set for Crucial World Cup Qualifier Clash

SALVADOR, Brazil (AP) — Brazil will introduce veteran right-back Danilo as the only change in their lineup when they face Uruguay on Tuesday, in a critical South American World Cup qualifier match. The match, taking place at the Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador de Bahia, carries significant implications for the standings, with the teams vying for the second-place position in the qualifiers.

Uruguay enters the contest with high spirits following their dramatic 3-2 victory over Colombia on Friday in Montevideo. Manuel Ugarte secured the win with a last-minute goal during stoppage time. Meanwhile, Brazil will aim to reclaim a victory after settling for a 1-1 draw against Venezuela, a match where Vinicius Júnior missed a penalty.

Brazil currently holds the fourth position with 17 points after 11 matches. Uruguay’s recent triumph elevated them to second place, tied with Colombia at 19 points. Argentina leads the qualifiers with 22 points and is set to face Peru in Buenos Aires.

Brazil’s inconsistency has led to a significant number of fans expressing their reluctance to watch future matches until an improvement in performance is observed. Captain and central defender Marquinhos has commented on the situation. «It saddens me as a player,» he stated. «Please do not abandon the Brazilian team. Sometimes results are hard to come by, but we wear this jersey with great pride,» the Paris Saint-Germain defender added.

Brazil has suffered four defeats in these qualifiers, with neither victories nor Vinicius’ performances providing reassurance. Danilo’s inclusion comes as a response to widespread calls for more experienced personnel in defense, replacing Vanderson, who is out due to suspension.

Uruguay will miss midfielder Nahitan Nández due to suspension and defender Santiago Bueno because of injury. However, Ugarte is anticipated to return to the starting lineup, providing the team with a stronger defensive presence in midfield.

The Uruguayan squad is expected to feature attackers Facundo Pellistri, Darwin Núñez, and Maximiliano Araújo, supported by midfielders Federico Valverde, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Ugarte. Caution is advised for key players to avoid amassing further yellow cards, as they could miss the following match against Argentina in March. Currently, Ugarte, Núñez, Bentancur, Aguirre, José María Giménez, Nicolás Fonseca, and Brian Rodríguez are one booking away from suspension.

The last encounter between Brazil and Uruguay occurred in the Copa América quarterfinals, where the teams drew 0-0 in Las Vegas, with Uruguay progressing after a penalty shootout.