Copa America 2024 tips and predictions: Paraguay vs Brazil - Selecao back on track with win and clean sheet

Paraguay and Brazil will square off in Group D at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas in the early hours of Friday morning.

Paraguay produced a decent performance in the first round despite losing 2-1 against Colombia, but will now encounter a significantly more formidable opponent in Brazil.

Brazil, on the other hand, disappointed their fans in their opener with a goalless draw against CONCACAF side Costa Rica leaving Dorival Junior’s side second in the group.

Paraguay are expected to finish third in the group, so pinching a point off of either Colombia or Brazil, while beating Costa Rica, is crucial to their chances.

 

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Naturally, Brazil are second favourite to win after Argentina, who they could meet in the final. However, another slip could put them on an early collision course.

Brazil dominated the game against Costa Rica, firing off 19 shots and hitting the target seven times. Lucas Paqueta and Raphinha were guilty of missing big chances.

Rodrygo and Bruno Guimaraes also wasted chances as Brazil limited the Costa Ricans to just shots, in the 86th and 75th minute, and just 29% possession.

It’s unlikely they’ll be as wasteful on Friday. The last meeting saw Brazil produce a 4-0 win in World Cup qualifying with goals from Raphinha, Coutinho, Antony and Rodrygo.

 

Key stats

- Brazil have won three of the last four meetings and are unbeaten since 2008
- Brazil have kept a clean sheet in the last four meetings
- Paraguay have won just three of their last 15 matches
- Paraguay have failed to score in 10 of their last 15 matches

 

Suggested bets

Brazil to win to nil

Rodrygo to score