Brazil is on the verge of glory – again.
Selecao is 90 minutes from defending his title as Copa America champion, and all that stands in the way is a date with Lionel Messi and Argentina in the famous Maracana.
Coach Tite will be aware of the expectations that fall, as the nation shifts up for carnival celebrations until the wee hours of Sunday morning. But even with the home advantage and a lot of talent at his disposal, the manager must have his team choice.
This is the starting line-up that should get on the field in Saturday night’s Copa America deal with Argentina in Rio de Janeiro.
Safe Hands / Buda Mendes / Getty Images
Ederson (GK) – Tite has put his trust in Ederson in skilled hands this summer and left Alisson Becker to watch from the bench. We see no reason for it to change in the final.
Danilo (RB) – Had a solid season with Juventus and that has translated into the international scene. Will face a lot of tricks on that flank.
Marquinhos (CB) – There are few better midfielders in world football, so it’s no surprise that Marquinhos will be the core of Brazil’s back line for this deal.
Thiago Silva (CB) – Despite his forward-looking years, Silva is still crucial for Brazil. That experience will be useful for such a big final. Renan Lodi (LB) – The Atletico Madrid man started the semi-final and he was able to keep his place before Alex Sandro in the left back. Will be commissioned to mark Messi – good luck.
Target Hero / Buda Mendes / Getty Images
Casemiro (CM) – A reliable presence for Real Madrid and Brazil, Casemiro will anchor the midfield. If anyone should get a yellow card and be drawn into a skirmish, it’s this man.
Fred (CM) – The Manchester United star has replaced Douglas Luiz in Brazil and has done a decent job for his country. Fred should get the nod again.
Lucas Paqueta (AM) – Was in to replace Gabriel Jesus after his red card, Paqueta has made the deal and made the winner in both the quarterfinals and semifinals. A surprise hero.
Superstar in Attack / Buda Mendes / Getty Images
Everton (RW) – The wing started the match against Peru, and even if he was dropped, he should keep his place for the final.
Neymar (ST) – The talisman of this forward line, Neymar, drifts around, sparkling and dazzling all over the pitch. He enjoys a wonderful Copa America.
Richarlison (LW) – Richarlison is a fluid, living thread of threats, to pull defenses around and pull them out of position, creating space for their colleagues going forward.
