The upcoming Copa America clash between Paraguay and Brazil promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams eager to secure a crucial victory.
This article delves into the prediction, team news, and form leading up to the match, providing a comprehensive overview for football fans.
Form and Recent Performance
Paraguay and Brazil enter this match with contrasting fortunes from their opening games. Brazil, despite dominating their first match against Costa Rica in terms of possession and chances, were held to a surprising 0-0 draw.
Their inability to convert opportunities into goals was a significant setback. In contrast, Paraguay faced a 2-1 defeat to Colombia, struggling to maintain their early defensive solidity after conceding in the first half.
Paraguay's Form
Paraguay's recent form has been inconsistent, particularly in the Copa America.
They have not managed to secure back-to-back victories in the tournament since 2016 and have struggled to recover after falling behind in matches.
Historically, Paraguay finds it difficult to bounce back once they concede the first goal, having lost 18 consecutive matches in such scenarios.
Brazil's Form
Brazil, known for their attacking prowess, have found themselves in a rare scoring drought in the Copa America.
Their last two matches in the tournament, including the 2021 final against Argentina, have ended without a goal.
However, Brazil has a history of strong comebacks, and their squad is packed with young talents who are expected to rise to the occasion.
Team News and Lineups
Paraguay
Paraguay will be cautious with Gustavo Velazquez and Andres Cubas, who are one booking away from suspension.
Rodrigo Morinigo is expected to continue as the goalkeeper, with Julio Enciso leading the attack after scoring his first international goal in the previous match.
Probable Starting XI: Morinigo; Velazquez, Balbuena, Alderete, Espinoza; Rojas, Cubas, Caballero; Romero, Arce, Enciso.
Brazil
Brazil might introduce changes to spark their attack.
Key players like Marquinhos, who had a goal disallowed in the opener, and Lucas Paqueta, who hit the woodwork, are likely to feature prominently.
The squad remains strong despite Douglas Luiz's absence and new appearances by Endrick and Savio.
Probable Starting XI: Alisson; Danilo, Militao, Marquinhos, Arana; Guimaraes, Luiz; Raphinha, Paqueta, Rodrygo; Junior.
Prediction
Given their recent form and historical performance, Brazil is the favourite to win this encounter.
The goalless draw against Costa Rica might serve as a wake-up call for the Selecao, pushing them to display their attacking potential.
Paraguay's defensive vulnerabilities and inability to recover after conceding make Brazil's chances of securing a win even higher.
Paraguay 
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