Our prediction for this World Cup 2026 match:
Estadio Defensores del Chaco will be packed when Paraguay and Brazil lock horns in round 8 of the South America World Cup qualifiers. Paraguay are no longer considered a team to beat in South America, but they did well to hold Uruguay to a goalless draw at the weekend. As Andres Cubas limped off with injury in the last qualifying match, Gremio midfielder Mathias Villasanti is widely expected to return to the starting XI.
The Selecao, on the other hand, defeated Ecuador 1-0 thanks to Rodrygo’s goal in Curitiba and they are seen as favourites to win Wednesday’s clash as well. Even though Atletico-MG defender Guilherme Arana suffered an injury against La Tricolor, away win should be considered as Paraguay suit Brazil. FC Porto man Wendell is likely to replace Arana in the starting eleven, but a man to watch in the away team will be Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior.
Highlighted Team (Brazil):
One of the most decorated teams in world football, Selecao have also been regarded as one of the most attractive and exciting teams with glowing reputation preceding them. Members of the CONMEBOL confederation, Brazil have played their first international in 1914 losing to bitter rivals Argentina with a comfortable 3-0 margin.
Brazil is the most successful nation in the FIFA World Cup with five championship title to their name. However, Selecao failed to advance past the quarter-finals of the last two tournaments last winning their World Cup in 2002. Their last title was the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and the star-studded team will be looking to get back to winning ways at this year’s historic Copa America Centenario in the United States.
Legendary Pele is Brazil’s top scorer with 77 goals to his name, while the team’s biggest star of the modern era Barcelona forward Neymar is sitting in fifth place having so far netted 46.