Brazil to face Uruguay in Copa America quarter-finals without Vinicius Jr. as Real Madrid star suspended

After a 1-1 draw with Brazil, Colombia won Group C, setting up a match against Panama in the quarter-finals of the Copa America, while Brazil will face Uruguay in a match that will undoubtedly be the highlight of the schedule. It was a match that showed the changes in South American football, as Colombia are now unbeaten in 26 matches, while Brazil continue to underperform and will now be without Vinicius Junior for the crucial match against Uruguay due to yellow cards.

It has been a difficult time for Dorival Jr., the coach of the Brazilian national team, who are sixth in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers after six games. Neymar Jr. has been sidelined with a knee injury, and Brazil, rather than moving on to a new era, are searching for their talisman. Vini Jr. seemed to be on the mend, scoring twice against Paraguay, but Lucas Paqueta and Rodrygo failed to make an impact. An attack that was fluid and embodied the beautiful game failed to produce results, generating just 0.25 xG.

Colombia have a great defence but Brazil are unable to break it down from open play, despite two thirds of Real Madrid’s attacking line leading the way, which is nothing short of disappointing. Raphinha’s free kick to open the scoring was excellent but more of that ingenuity is needed in the build-up for Brazil to show they can win this edition of the Copa America.

Los Cafeteros showed they can score with every member of their team. Daniel Munoz’s equaliser secured the tie, but Brazil will need to find a goal-scorer and slow down Uruguay, who are the most effective team in the Copa America.

This could be a chance for Endrick to start on the left wing, but even that change seems inadequate. Against Paraguay, Brazil created chances through Savio, but in this match they opted to move away from him, opting for more standard attacking options. While rotation is key, this is what happens when you try to wait out Carlo Ancelotti, hoping he leaves Real Madrid, going through two managers in the process rather than finding a permanent solution. The frustration surrounding Brazil is obvious, as expectations are high but performances are not up to snuff. Anything short of winning it all will lead to more questions, but Brazil have done very little to prove their status as contenders.

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