Author: Barkha Roy
On Tuesday (10), Fernando Diniz began preparing Brazil for the match against Venezuela, this Thursday (12), at 9:30 pm (Brasília time), at the Arena Pantanal, in the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
One of Diniz’s surprising choices was Guilherme Arana as the starting left-back. The starting line-up was as follows: Ederson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes and Guilherme Arana; Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães and Neymar; Rodrygo, Richarlison and Vinicius Júnior.
Diniz opted to keep the core of the squad consistent with the first two rounds.
Vinicius Junior returned as another significant addition to the team. The Real Madrid striker missed out on the previous squad due to injury. This time, Raphinha, who had replaced Vinicius in the first two matches, was left out.
Brazil currently lead the qualifiers with a perfect record, having secured six points with their wins against Bolivia (5-1) and Peru (1-0). The Brazilian team is in first place on goal difference, beating Argentina, who also have a 100% record.
The training session at the Arena Pantanal was attended by more than 6,000 children, an incredible initiative that aims to bring the Brazilian national team closer to young fans. According to a spokesman for the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), these children were students from local schools and members of various non-governmental organizations in the region.
This team of new faces and tried-and-tested stars under Fernando Diniz promises an exciting clash against Venezuela. As Brazil look to maintain their unbeaten run in World Cup qualifying, the country’s soccer enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the clash at the Arena Pantanal.
In preparation for the decisive match against Venezuela, the Brazil national team made some obvious changes to its starting line-up. Fernando Diniz, the head coach, introduced several new faces to the team for the upcoming match on Thursday.
One of the most significant changes is the inclusion of Guilherme Arana as the starting left-back. The defensive line will be strengthened by the presence of Arana, who brings his skills and experience to the position. The choice of Guilherme Arana is indicative of the coach’s strategic decisions to build a balanced and formidable first team.
The starting eleven for the match against Venezuela features some of Brazil’s best talents. Ederson, who has consistently impressed for Manchester City, will take his place in goal. The defense is anchored by Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes and the aforementioned Guilherme Arana, offering a mix of experience and emerging talent.
The midfield trio is made up of Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães and Neymar. Casemiro, a key figure for Real Madrid, provides solidity in midfield, while Bruno Guimarães and Neymar bring creativity and skill to the center of the pitch. His ability to control the game and create chances will be crucial to Brazil’s success.
Up front, Brazil have a dynamic attacking trio that includes Rodrygo, Richarlison and Vinicius Júnior. These attacking players have the ability to break down defenses and score goals. Vinicius Júnior’s return is particularly exciting, as he missed out on the previous squad due to injury. Their presence will undoubtedly add another dimension to Brazil’s attacking capacity.
One notable absentee from the starting line-up is Raphinha, who replaced Vinicius Júnior in the first two qualifying matches as the Barça striker was ruled out through injury. Fernando Diniz’s decision to make this change underlines his commitment to keeping the team fresh and ensuring that the best players are on the pitch in every match.