Brazil vs. Paraguay: Predicted XI for World Cup qualifier as Vini Jr. retains starting role

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Carlo Ancelotti is expected to keep Vinicius Junior in the Brazil lineup when the Selecao welcome Paraguay to Arena Corinthians in their 16th match of World Cup 2026 qualifying on Tuesday night.  

The Real Madrid star has failed to sparkle in the qualifiers, as evidenced by scoring one goal throughout the series, which came in the five-time world champions' 2-1 win over Colombia in March.  

With Los Blancos teammate Rodrygo not included in the current squad, the onus is on Vini Jr. to carry much of the attacking burden for the underperforming Selecao.  

While Ancelotti might retain the Real Madrid wide forward, the Italian manager could opt for alterations in other attacking areas after Richarlison and Estevao Willian could not shine against Ecuador.  

The erstwhile Los Blancos boss could opt for Matheus Cunha, who joins Manchester United this summer, and Antony, the Red Devils loanee, who flourished during his temporary spell in Spain with Real Betis.  

The midfield could be unchanged, even if there might be some calls for Gerson to be replaced by Andrey Santos; however, Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes definitely retain their spots in the team.  

Casemiro rewarded Ancelotti's faith in handing him a recall to the group after a two-year absence from the Selecao, winning 10 of 13 duels, including four from four aerial tussles, winning five tackles from five and playing forward-thinking passes when he had possession.  

The backline could also remain the same with Vanderson and Alex Sandro either side of centre-backs Marquinhos and Alexsandro Ribeiro, while Alisson Becker should keep his spot between the sticks. 

Brazil possible starting lineup: 

Alisson; Vanderson, Marquinhos, Ribeiro, Sandro; Guimaraes, Casemiro, Gerson; Antony, Cunha, Vinicius