In a crucial matchup for World Cup qualification, Brazilian striker João Pedro has been selected to lead the national team's attack against Colombia at the Mané Garrincha Stadium in Brasília on March 20, 2025, at 21h45. Under the guidance of coach Dorival Júnior, the 23-year-old forward aims to bolster Brazil's chances as they currently sit fifth in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.
João Pedro, who has had a standout season with Brighton in the English Premier League, boasts impressive statistics of eight goals and seven assists in the 2024/25 season. This performance has earned him the starting position as Brazil eyes a win that could elevate their ranking in the qualifiers. "I feel more comfortable playing as a number 9. If you follow my games in the Premier League and Europa League, I like to move around; I’m not that 9 who stands still waiting for the ball in the box. If he asks me, my first answer will be this," João Pedro stated, highlighting his dynamic role in the attack.
The tactical choice of João Pedro as the central forward reflects the coaching staff's desire to implement a robust strategy against a physically strong Colombian defensive line. With Rodrygo and Vini Jr. offering attacking support, doctors have crafted a lineup that seeks to exploit the defenses and create goal-scoring opportunities. This strategy is especially significant considering Brazil's recent performances, including a disappointing 2-1 loss to the same Colombian team previously.
Since joining Brighton for 34 million euros in 2023, João Pedro has made an impact in the Premier League, contributing to his team's success in various competitions. His journey began with Fluminense, where he captured attention after scoring a stunning hat-trick in just 33 minutes against Atlético Nacional in the 2019 Copa Sudamericana. This initial professional success led to a transfer to England and subsequently, to the Brazilian national team, where he made his debut under former coach Fernando Diniz in November 2023.
Despite Brazil's mixed results in the qualifiers so far, the potential for improvement is evident. Jessica Cescon has analyzed João Pedro's role, noting that "he is an interesting option to make a lighter game." His ability to maneuver fluidly on the field may provide Brazil with the edge needed to secure a convincing performance against Colombia.
The preparatory efforts for this match are crucial as Brazil also looks forward to taking on Argentina later in the qualifiers. As they seek not only to secure a victory against Colombia but also to reclaim a stronger position in their quest to qualify for the World Cup, every player’s contribution will matter significantly.
The expected lineup for the match against Colombia on Thursday includes notable players: Alisson, Vanderson, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, and Guilherme Arana in defense; Bruno Guimarães, Gerson, Raphinha, and Rodrygo in midfield; and João Pedro paired with Vini Jr. in the attacking front. Each of these key players has their roles outlined within the tactical framework of Coach Dorival Júnior, who aims to mobilize their strengths into a cohesive team dynamic.
As the match approaches, all eyes will be on João Pedro. This is not only an opportunity for him to solidify his status within the national team but to lead Brazil back to its rightful place in the World Cup landscape. Will he rise to the occasion and inspire his teammates to victory? Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating Thursday's showdown.
With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, João Pedro's performance could very well determine Brazil's trajectory in the qualifiers. As the team looks to build momentum, this match against Colombia represents a pivotal moment in their pursuit of World Cup qualification.
