Brazil and Paraguay are set to face off in their second Group match at the Allegiant Stadium, with both teams looking to bounce back from disappointing results in their opening matches.
Brazil was held to a 0-0 draw with Costa Rica, despite dominating the game in all aspects. Marquinhos' goal was disallowed due to offside, and Brazil failed to find the back of the net for the second consecutive Copa America match.
Paraguay, on the other hand, suffered a 2-1 defeat to Colombia, with Enciso's goal providing a glimmer of hope in the second half. However, they were unable to equalize and suffered their third consecutive Copa America defeat when trailing after 45 minutes. Paraguay's record of coming back from behind is poor, having lost 18 consecutive matches after conceding the opening goal.
Historically, Brazil has the upper hand in this fixture, having not lost to Paraguay in regular time in the Copa America group stages. However, Paraguay has defeated Brazil in two of their previous three matches at this tournament, both times on penalties. The last time Brazil lost to Paraguay was in the 2015 Copa America quarterfinals, where they were defeated 4-3 on penalties after the match ended 1-1 in regular time.
Both teams are struggling with form, with Brazil managing only two wins in their last six matches and Paraguay securing only one win in their last six. The Brazilians will be looking to avoid consecutive draws, which would be a first since 2015. Paraguay, on the other hand, will be hoping to avoid consecutive defeats in 90 minutes, which would be a first since 2016.
Two Paraguayan players, Gustavo Velazquez and Andres Cubas, are on yellow cards and risk missing their final match if they receive another booking.
Brazil's possible starting lineup includes Alisson, Danilo, Militao, Marquinhos, Arana, Guimaraes, Luiz, Raphinha, Paqueta, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Junior.
Paraguay's possible starting lineup includes Morinigo, Velazquez, Balbuena, Alderete, Espinoza, Rojas, Cubas, Caballero, Romero, Arce, and Enciso.
This match promises to be an exciting encounter between two teams looking to get their tournament back on track. Brazil's dominance in possession and chances created will likely be matched by Paraguay's determination to avoid defeat. With both teams struggling for form, this match could go either way. Will Brazil's experience and talent pay off, or will Paraguay's resilience and determination lead to an upset?
The Brazilians will be looking to their star players, such as Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, to provide the spark they need to break down Paraguay's defense. Paraguay, on the other hand, will be relying on their experienced players, such as Rojas and Arce, to provide leadership and guidance. The match will likely be a tight and intense affair, with both teams fighting for every ball. In the end, it will come down to which team can capitalize on their chances and make the most of their possession.