Brazil and Colombia will square off on Matchday 13 of the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers, making waves as both teams are vying for crucial points to solidify their chances for the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. With only one point separating them in the standings, this match promises to be a pivotal encounter.
The clash will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the Arena BRB Mane Garrincha in Brasilia, starting at 8:45 PM ET. Viewers in the USA can catch the action on Fubo, Universo, Telemundo, and ViX. For Brazil, this is particularly critical as they've fallen into a rut, recording back-to-back draws against Uruguay and Venezuela during their previous outings. Currently positioned fifth in the CONMEBOL confederation standings, Brazil aims to climb higher with a win that could place them in a better position for securing a spot in next year’s tournament.
Colombia, on the other hand, is seeking redemption after losing their last two qualifiers. They currently sit fourth with 19 points, just ahead of Brazil’s 18. The pressure to perform is palpable, as a victory would elevate Colombia's standing and potentially push them back up the rankings.
As Brazil prepares for the match, they will have to do so without their star player, Neymar, who has been ruled out due to a thigh injury. The Santos forward has been a key figure for Brazil, and his absence has prompted manager Dorival Junior to turn to other talents such as Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid and Rodrygo, also from Real Madrid, plus Barcelona’s Raphinha. Brazil’s predicted starting lineup includes Alisson; Vanderson, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Arana; Gerson, Guimaraes; Rodrygo, Raphinha, Vinicius Jr; Cunha.
Colombia's fortunes depend heavily on the performance of forward Luis Diaz, who will be supported in attack by Jhon Duran and veteran playmaker James Rodriguez. Their manager, Néstor Lorenzo, remains undefeated against Brazil in his coaching tenure, and this match will be crucial for him to maintain that record. The visitors' predicted lineup is Vargas; Munoz, Lucumi, Sanchez, Mojica; Lerma, Portilla; Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz; Duran.
The rivalry between Brazil and Colombia adds another layer of intensity to this match. Historically, Brazil has dominated their encounters, boasting a record of two wins, one loss, and two draws in their last five meetings. Their most recent encounter ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw during the Copa America, with both sides eager to assert their dominance in this upcoming match.
Looking back at the qualifying campaign, both teams have shown inconsistent form. Brazil, despite its pedigree as a five-time World Cup champion, has struggled to find its rhythm under Junior’s management, tallying six wins, six draws, and two losses across 14 matches. They will enter this match needing to convert their chances and regain momentum to close the gap with the top teams in the standings.
Colombia, who also reached the finals of the Copa America recently, is under pressure to regain its competitive edge after suffering steep losses in the qualifying stages. Their draw against Brazil last year in the tournament showcased their capability to hold their own against top teams, and they remain a formidable opponent despite recent setbacks.
As the soccer world tunes in, fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere in Brasilia. A win for Brazil would take them to 21 points, potentially moving them up to second place in the standings, while a victory for Colombia may propel them into a more comfortable distance from the teams below them
. As they line up for the kickoff, the stakes are undeniably high. The match represents not just points in the qualification table but also national pride. Who will control the narrative in this intense South American soccer rivalry? The match will kick-off at 8:45 PM ET on March 20, and anticipation is already building for this crucial clash.
