After just about scraping through to the quarter finals of the World Cup, Brazil faces another South American side in Colombia who have performed above expectation in the tournament so far. The host nation know they have to improve if they wish to play in the semi -finals while for their opponents the form of James Rodriguez has made them believe they can compete with the best teams .
BRAZIL: The Brazilians have been sweating over the fitness of star striker Neymar who is not certain to take the field against Colombia after the knock he took against Chile. It will be a major blow for the home team if Neymar does not make it to the starting line up. Another potential change in the starting line up could be the replacement of Fred with Jo after his woeful campaign continued against the Chileans. The central midfield partnership of Fernandinho and Luis Gustavo is likely to continue even though they did look a bit shaky against the Chileans. Scholari may also persist with Hulk but has options in the form of Ramires who could be utilised if things go pear shaped.
COLOMBIA: The South American nation have been revitalized under Jose Pekerman and can dare to believe that they are more than capable of knocking their opponents Brazil out of the tournament. The impact James Rodriguez has had on the tournament so far is nothing short of phenomenon. With 5 goals and 4 assist to his credit, the young Colombian has been the talisman for his side and is certainly a favourite for the golden boot. He has been assisted by the likes of Juan Cuadrado and Jackson Martinez who have been brilliant as well. In defence the partnership of skipper Mario Yepes of Cristian Zapta has yielded the right results and can prove to be a tough nut for Brazil to crack.
PREDICTED LINE UP
BRAZIL: J Cesar, Marcelo, T Silva, D Luiz, D Alves, Fernandinho, Neymar, Hulk, Fred, Oscar, L Gustavo
COLOMBIA: D Ospina, C Zapata, M Yepes, C Carbonero, P Armero, A Ramos, C Sanchez, A Aguilar, J G Cuadrado, J Rodriguez, J Martinez
PREDICTION: Brazil have not lost a competitive match on home soil for a massive 39 years and look set to continue their winning streak although it will not be easy against a Colombian side who are desperate to continue their dream run in the tournament.
FULL TIME : BRAZIL 2 COLOMBIA 1
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