The South American qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are entering their decisive stage. During this March international break, key matches will be played that could determine the future of several teams. Brazil and Colombia will be the protagonists of one of the week’s most anticipated matchups, as two of the region’s strongest teams aim to secure their spot in the tournament, set to take place next year in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Brazil have faced challenges throughout much of the World Cup qualifiers. Despite boasting a squad full of talent, they have yet to reach their best form. Their early exit from the Copa America 2024, where they were eliminated in the quarterfinals, added fuel to the fire of criticism aimed at head coach Dorival Junior and certain players, particularly Vinicius Junior. Brazil currently sit in fifth place in the standings with 18 points, having earned 5 wins, 3 draws, and 4 losses.
On the other hand, Colombia are riding a wave of optimism. Under the leadership of James Rodriguez, they reached the Copa America final against Argentina and have continued their strong form in the qualifiers. With 19 points, they are in fourth place and will look to take a significant step toward World Cup qualification with a good result against Brazil.
Brazil’s lineup vs. Colombia
Brazilian fans had hoped for the return of Neymar to the national team during this international break. The forward had been sidelined for over a year following a knee injury sustained against Uruguay in October 2023. Although Ney’s return to Santos sparked some optimism, a muscular issue ultimately ruled him out of the call-up.
With Neymar absent, coach Dorival Junior will look to Real Madrid stars Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes, alongside Barcelona’s Raphinha, to lead the attack. Brazil’s starting XI will be: Alisson; Vanderson, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Guilherme Arana; Bruno Guimaraes, Gerson; Raphinha, Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr; Joao Pedro.
Colombia’s starting XI against Brazil
Unlike Brazil, Colombia’s lineup appears more settled. Head coach Nestor Lorenzo has found a successful formula that he has consistently deployed, making only minor adjustments based on match conditions.
Colombia’s starting XI to face Brazil will be: Camilo Vargas; Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sanchez, Jhon Lucumi, Johan Mojica; Jhon Arias, Richard Rios, Jefferson Lerma, James Rodriguez; Luis Diaz, Jhon Cordoba.
What’s next for Brazil and Colombia?
Brazil’s 2025 schedule is filled with high-stakes matches. After Thursday’s showdown with Colombia at Mane Garrincha Stadium in Brasilia, they will shift their focus to the next qualifier against Argentina, the current leaders of the standings. That match will take place on Tuesday night in Buenos Aires.
Colombia’s schedule also shows a challenging road ahead. After their clash with Brazil, they will return home to Barranquilla, where they will host Paraguay—a direct competitor for World Cup qualification—on Tuesday night at the Metropolitano Stadium.