As the Brazilian national football team prepares to face Colombia in the World Cup qualifiers on March 20, 2025, all eyes are on the new attacking talent set to make his debut as a starter. João Pedro, the young forward from Brighton & Hove Albion, has been announced by head coach Dorival Júnior as part of the starting lineup for this crucial match, which is to commence at 21:45 local time at the Estádio Nacional Mané Garrincha in Brasília.
This significant match not only marks João Pedro's first time starting for Brazil, but he will also don the iconic number 9 jersey, previously worn by football legend Ronaldo Fenômeno. The 22-year-old forward steps into this new role after a notable journey that began with Fluminense, where he made his professional debut shortly after turning 17 before moving to Watford and then Brighton, where he has found a stable environment to showcase his talents.
João Pedro's recruitment for the Brazil squad comes as a direct response to the absence of star player Neymar, who has been sidelined due to a recurring muscle injury. As Dorival noted, the absence of the veteran player has allowed fresh talent like João Pedro to emerge as key figures in the squad's attacking strategy against Colombia.
In the current season with Brighton, João Pedro has made a significant impact, recording 8 goals and providing 7 assists in 25 appearances. These stats are impressive, especially considering he primarily plays as a center forward. Last season was particularly productive for him, scoring 20 goals in 40 games, showcasing his ability to adapt and perform consistently at a high level in the English Premier League (EPL).
The younger stars of Brazil's lineup will partner João Pedro in a vibrant attack, including talents such as Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Raphinha. Dorival emphasizes that the strategy will focus on pushing João Pedro forward to create space for these wingers to exploit, allowing him to be a reference point in the Colombia defense.
“João flutua muito, mas ele é um homem que tem chegado muito na área,” Dorival stated, indicating how the young forward has a tendency to float in and out of the area but has been influential in finding scoring opportunities, something Brazil will need to capitalize on against the Colombian side that previously defeated them.
The match against Colombia is particularly crucial not only for João Pedro, who aims to impress after a string of call-ups without a goal for Brazil but also for the team as they seek to bolster their position in the qualifiers for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026. In the prior qualifying match, Brazil lost 2-1 to Colombia, and the players are keen to reverse that result in front of a home crowd.
The CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation) recently released the player numbers for the upcoming matches against Colombia and Argentina. João Pedro officially holds the number 9 shirt, while Rodrygo takes the iconic 10, highlighting the expectations placed on him in light of Neymar's absence.
Brazil’s lineup for the match will include well-known players: Alisson will serve as goalkeeper, with a defense comprising Vanderson, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, and Guilherme Arana. In midfield, Bruno Guimarães and Gerson will be key, while the attacking front is set with João Pedro, Rodrygo, Raphinha, and Vinícius Júnior, forming a potent offensive lineup.
Even outside of his footballing prowess, João Pedro's financial status in the sport is considerable. With a gross annual salary of £2.6 million at Brighton, João Pedro has solidified his standing among the top earners in the team. His contract, valid until June 2028, provides him with stability as he positions himself within the squad and his club.
“O João flutua muito, mas ele é um homem que tem chegado muito na área,” said Dorival, discussing the tactical importance João Pedro holds in the game against Colombia. The young forward not only has to deliver on the pitch but has the opportunity to affirm Dorival’s decision to trust him as a starter.
The upcoming clash against Colombia has stirred significant anticipation not just among fans but for João Pedro himself, who aims to make a mark as he takes the field in front of a home crowd. Indeed, these are exciting times for the young forward, who has battled through his career's ups and downs to reach this moment.
The Brazilian team is set to showcase its depth and emerging talents in the match against Colombia, and with João Pedro stepping into the spotlight, expectations are high. A win would not only help elevate Brazil's standings in the qualifiers but also cement João Pedro's place as a critical player for the new generation of Brazilian footballers.
As the kickoff approaches, the Brazilian fans are hoping for a display of creativity, power, and flair—aligning with the rich history of Brazilian football. With João Pedro ready to take center stage, excitement fills the air, ready to witness what this talented young player will bring to the pitch.
