The stage is set for an exciting encounter as Brazil takes on Colombia in the 13th round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The match, scheduled for March 20, 2025, at 21:45 local time, will take place at the iconic Mané Garrincha stadium in Brasília. With Brazil positioned fifth and Colombia in fourth in the standings, both teams are looking for vital points to secure their places in the prestigious tournament.
The Colombian side comes into this match with a roster that boasts some of the finest talents in Latin American football. The expected lineup includes goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, defenders Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sánchez, Jhon Lucumí, and Cristian Borja, while the midfield will feature Richard Ríos, Jefferson Lerma, and experienced captain James Rodríguez. Up front, Jhon Arias and star forward Luis Díaz will team up with Rafael Santos Borré to create a potent attack.
Colombia's James Rodríguez has consistently been a pivotal figure for the national team. Despite mixed club performances this season, he has managed to find his form at the international level, contributing two goals and four assists in the qualifiers. His creativity and vision will be essential as Colombia aims to break down the Brazilian defense.
Another crucial player is Luis Díaz, the Liverpool winger, who has emerged as a key figure in Colombia's attacking line. With four goals in the qualifiers thus far, he is only two goals shy of leading the tournament scorer, Lionel Messi. In the first round of qualifiers, Díaz caused Brazil considerable trouble, netting both goals in a previous match where Colombia triumphed with a 2-1 victory in Barranquilla. His pace and skill are likely to pose a threat again.
Moreover, John Arias of Fluminense has solidified his spot within the national squad, serving as a tireless midfielder with the remarkable ability to connect play from defense to attack. This season, he has made 12 appearances for Fluminense, scoring twice and assisting six goals, showcasing his dual threat on the field.
On the Brazilian side, head coach Dorival Júnior is expected to field a strong lineup, spearheaded by goalkeeper Alisson. The defensive line will feature Vanderson, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, and Guilherme Arana. The midfield will include Bruno Guimarães, Gerson, Rodrygo, and Raphinha, while Vinícius Júnior and João Pedro are set to lead the attack.
Gerson, captain of Flamengo, has made a name for himself in the qualifiers and will be crucial for Brazil as he aims to replicate his form from club football. He recently scored a stunning goal against Uruguay, assisting in maintaining their push for qualification.
Brazil's campaign has faced hurdles, as they currently sit with 18 points after a series of mixed results, including two consecutive 1-1 draws against Uruguay and Venezuela during the last international break. A victory against Colombia is essential if they want to rally back into contention for the upcoming World Cup.
The stakes are high as Brazil aims to secure their spot in the next World Cup while Colombia looks to regain momentum after two recent defeats against Ecuador and Uruguay. Colombia is in fourth place with 19 points, presenting a close competition for Brazil, who is just one point behind them.
The recent form of both teams has heightened the anticipation surrounding this clash. Colombia’s recent losses have shaken their confidence, and they will need to bounce back quickly if they want to keep their top-four hopes alive. Meanwhile, Brazil is determined to capitalize on the opportunity presented by their home-field advantage.
Fans can catch the action live on Globo, Sportv, and streaming on Globoplay, ensuring that the excitement will be shared by many throughout Brazil and beyond.
In the lineup for Colombia, Richard Ríos has established himself as a reliable option. The Palmeiras player has been significant in the midfield, building off a successful Copa América campaign where Colombia finished as runners-up. His skills in facilitating attacks and taking chances from range make him a player to watch.
Finally, for added depth, Colombia’s young forward John Durán, who plies his trade at Al-Nassr, has demonstrated his scoring ability as a substitute. Having tallied 20 goals in 43 matches this season, he provides Colombia with impactful options off the bench.
As the clock counts down to kickoff, both teams are fully aware of what is at stake. With World Cup aspirations on the line, every moment of this match will matter significantly, and fans can expect a thrilling contest.
