Brazil vs. Colombia World Cup Qualifier: Match Preview, Predictions & Betting Tips – 21/3/2025

The race for direct qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup heats up as Brazil hosts Colombia in a critical CONMEBOL qualifier at the legendary Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. Scheduled for March 21, 2025, at 01:45 local time, this Matchday 13 encounter will be crucial for both teams, as they battle for a top-six finish in the South American standings.

Brazil sits in fifth place with 18 points, while Colombia is slightly ahead in fourth place with 19 points. With just a few games remaining in the qualification campaign, a victory here could be pivotal in securing an automatic spot for the tournament in North America. The last time these two teams met in qualifiers, Colombia managed a hard-fought 1-1 draw, proving they can hold their own against Brazil.

Brazil Overview

The five-time world champions have had an unpredictable qualifying campaign, recording five wins, three draws, and four losses. They have scored 17 goals but have conceded 11, a concerning defensive record for a team of Brazil’s stature. Their home form, however, remains a stronghold, with three wins, two draws, and just one defeat in their last six qualifiers on Brazilian soil.

In their most recent fixture, Brazil played out a frustrating 1-1 draw against Uruguay, where they controlled possession but struggled to convert chances. This inconsistency has been a recurring issue, with flashes of their traditional attacking brilliance often overshadowed by defensive lapses and midfield imbalances.

Adding to Brazil’s challenges is the absence of Neymar, who was initially expected to make a long-awaited return but has been ruled out due to a muscle injury. To fill the void, 18-year-old Real Madrid forward Endrick has been called up, bringing excitement and unpredictability to the squad.

Brazilian manager Dorival Júnior has faced scrutiny for his tactical approach, with critics questioning whether his team has the defensive discipline needed to compete at the highest level. However, with world-class talents like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Bruno Guimarães, Brazil remains a formidable force, especially at home.

Key Players to Watch for Brazil

• Vinícius Júnior – The Real Madrid star will be crucial in breaking down Colombia’s defense.
• Rodrygo – Another Madrid attacker, capable of producing moments of magic in tight spaces.
• Casemiro – The experienced midfielder will be key in maintaining balance and breaking up opposition play.
• Endrick – The teenage sensation will be looking to make an impact in Neymar’s absence.

Colombia Overview

Los Cafeteros have exceeded expectations in the qualifiers, securing five wins, four draws, and three losses. They have scored 15 goals and conceded 10, demonstrating a solid balance between attack and defense. However, their away record has been less impressive, with just one victory in six matches.

Colombia’s most recent result, a disappointing 0-1 home loss to Ecuador, has increased the pressure heading into this match. Prior to that, they had put together an impressive unbeaten run, including a stunning victory over Argentina. Under the leadership of Néstor Lorenzo, Colombia has developed a flexible playing style, adapting tactics based on their opponents. Against stronger teams like Brazil, they are likely to adopt a counter-attacking approach.

James Rodríguez remains the creative spark in midfield, while Liverpool’s Luis Díaz is expected to provide the attacking threat. Additionally, young forward Marino Hinestroza has been called up and could make an impact off the bench.

Key Players to Watch for Colombia

• James Rodríguez – The playmaker’s vision and set-piece delivery will be crucial.
• Luis Díaz – The Liverpool winger has the pace and skill to trouble Brazil’s defense.
• Davinson Sánchez – The experienced defender will be tasked with stopping Brazil’s attacking threats.
• Marino Hinestroza – A surprise inclusion in the squad, he could be a wild card for Colombia.

Head-to-Head and Recent Form

The historical record slightly favors Brazil in recent encounters. In their last five meetings across all competitions:

• Brazil won twice
• Colombia won once
• Two matches ended in draws

Their most recent clash in the 2024 Copa América ended in a 1-1 draw, reflecting how competitive this fixture has been in recent years.

Brazil’s last five matches in all competitions: 2 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss Colombia’s last five matches in all competitions: 2 wins, 3 losses

Tactical Approaches and Strategies

• Brazil is expected to dominate possession and press high, using their quick attacking wingers to exploit Colombia’s defense.
• Colombia will likely play deeper, relying on counter-attacks led by Luis Díaz and James Rodríguez’s passing ability.

Final Prediction

While Colombia has been one of the most consistent teams in this qualifying campaign, Brazil’s home advantage, depth in talent, and motivation to bounce back make them the likely winners. Given Brazil’s defensive struggles and Colombia’s attacking threats, it wouldn’t be surprising if both teams get on the scoresheet.

Final Score Prediction: Brazil 2-1 Colombia