Morocco edged out Brazil when the record five-time champions began their 2026 World Cup campaign last week, giving coach Carlo Ancelotti food for thought.
Things should be different for Haiti, who lost to Scotland – albeit narrowly – and are ranked outside the top 80 in the world. But nothing is ever certain in the World Cup.
Neymar did not sit on the bench against Morocco, and his participation in the second Brazil match is also in doubt. However, there are signs of progress, with the 34-year-old briefly taking part in training on Wednesday, his first time at a World Cup. But for now, he primarily trains on his own.
if Brazil If the team fails to win this match, it will be a national disaster, as all the pressure on qualifying for the knockout stages will transfer to the final group match against Scotland.
This is the team Ancelotti could pick for the must-win match in Philadelphia.
Predicted Brazil XI against Haiti
Choose your Brazil squad!
Goalkeeper: Alisson—Morocco were arguably at fault for the goal they scored, but they then ensured Brazil’s opener was no worse by saving two late goals. We’ll hope for a cleaner performance here.
RB: Danilo —The veteran replaced Roger Ibanez, usually a centre-back for his club team, in the first half and is now expected to take the field from the start.
Playmaker: Marquinhos—The captain was given a significant rest from Paris Saint-Germain during the club’s season to keep him fresh UEFA Champions League It is also in Brazil’s favor.
Playmaker: Gabriel —A first clean sheet at the World Cup will be the daily routine for the centre-back who is accustomed to shooting for his club team.
LB: Douglas Santos —Getting into attacking areas will be crucial for Brazil to stretch the pitch, as neither winger is likely to occupy those spaces.
RM: Lucas Paqueta —Under pressure for his place from Luiz Henrique after being substituted by the Zenit man in just the 61st minute he last played. He won’t stick to his winger, but Danilo is unlikely to need as much protection behind him as Ibanez did.
Midfielder: Bruno Guimarães—He was tasked with being a midfield runner and doing a little bit of everything. He will be keen to add to his assists in their Group C opener.
Midfielder: Casemiro —He did not see all that much of the ball against Morocco and lost more than 50% of his 13 confrontations. This should be a different game that provides the veteran with more control.
LM: Rafinha-Brazil’s most threatening player went off in his first game of that match without a goal or an assist.
ST: Matthews Cunha —The Manchester United striker could be included in the squad in place of Brentford’s Igor Thiago, who wasted good chances after his confidence against Morocco.
Striker: Vinicius Junior—As long as Brazil has Vinny Junior, they have a chance to win any match. He just needs to stay in the game longer.
Read the latest World Cup news, analysis and insight from SI FC
Add us as a favorite resource on Google
