Prediction: Brazil vs Bolivia

erdict: Home win by four goals or more

Best odds: 14/17

Bookmaker: BetUS

As the most successful national team in World Cup history, Brazil always carries high expectations in international competitions, and they kick off their campaign for a sixth title in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia on Friday evening, local time. The match will be played at the Estadio Estadual Jornalista Edgar Augusto Proenca in Belem.

Brazil

Brazil’s impressive football legacy is characterized by their attacking prowess and rich history, boasting stars like Pele, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, and more recently, Neymar. The current Brazilian squad includes several world-class talents and is considered one of the favorites to excel in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, as well as at the main tournament in North America, in 2026.

With Fernando Diniz temporarily in charge of the team, until Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti takes over at the end of the current season, the Selecao will be looking to make a strong statement straight away, and possibly even get a large part of the job done before the experienced Italian tactician arrives.

Brazil have always been extremely formidable on their own soil, winning all eight home matches as they pushed through the qualifications to reach the World Cup in Qatar last year. It should, however, be noted that their home match against eventual world champions Argentina was cancelled after four Argentinian players were judged to have broken COVID-19 protocols in Brazil.

Team News

Neymar’s inclusion in the Brazil squad despite his move to Al-Hilal highlights the importance of the star player for the national team. His presence, alongside the strong Premier League contingent in the squad, is a clear sign of the depth and talent that Brazil possess.

The choice between Gabriel Jesus and Richarlison in the lineup provides an interesting decision for Fernando Diniz, as both players bring their own unique qualities to the team. It will be intriguing to see which option he selects for the upcoming matches.

Notably, the absence of Vinicius Junior and Eder Militao due to injury is a setback, as both players have been vital contributors for Brazil. The expulsion of Manchester United winger Antony from the squad due to allegations of domestic abuse is a significant development and reflects the Brazilian FA’s commitment to addressing such issues seriously.

Bolivia

Bolivia’s historical record against Brazil in World Cup qualifiers is a mix of a few surprising results and numerous comprehensive defeats. While they famously held the Selecao to a 0-0 draw in the 2010 qualifiers and secured a historic victory at home in the same campaign, their overall record against this particular foe on the road has been bleak.

In their seven trips to Brazil for World Cup qualifiers since 1993, Bolivia have suffered seven consecutive losses, with a combined scoreline of 33-1 in favor of Brazil. This stark contrast in performance between home and away fixtures illustrates not only the formidable challenge Bolivia faces when playing in Brazil, but also the fact that the thin air at La Paz’s high altitude often plays into their hands.

Bolivia’s chances of qualifying for the World Cup have improved with the expanded CONMEBOL slots, providing them with an opportunity to participate in the tournament for the first time since 1994. Qualification would allow Bolivia to work on improving their World Cup record, which currently stands at zero wins, one point, and one goal across three World Cup appearances. That, however, is easier said than done; there will be others who will also be looking at those added spots with relish.

Team News

Bolivia are dealing with several injury concerns as they prepare for this match. Jeyson Chura and Jesus Sagredo are unavailable, which is an obvious setback for the team.

Coach Gustavo Costas has made some decisions regarding squad selection, leaving out Danny Bejarano and Ramiro Vaca, despite their previous inclusion in the squad that faced Chile in June.

Marcelo Moreno, who is still performing at a high level at the age of 36, is expected to captain the team. Moreno holds a special place in Bolivia’s football history for his famous goal against Brazil during the 2010 qualifying campaign when Bolivia defeated Brazil in La Paz. His experience and leadership will be crucial for Bolivia in these qualifications.

Conclusion

With all due respect to Bolivia, there seems to be just one possible way in which this contest is going to go, and that’s another high-scoring home win.

Verdict: Home win by four goals or more

Best odds: 14/17

Bookmaker: BetUS