Brazil starting lineup vs Norway: Carlo Ancelotti’s XI for the round of 16 game
Lucas Paquetá is ruled out of the Norway clash. Ancelotti’s team head into the game on the back of three straight wins.
When it comes to the World Cup, Brazil are in a league of their own. It’s been 36 years since the last time the Seleção didn’t make it past the Round of 16 - this afternoon in East Rutherford, Norway could become the first team to deny Brazil a place in the quarter finals since Argentina at Italia 90.
Brazil didn’t exactly get their campaign off with a bang. A 1-1 draw against Morocco in which they were forced to come from behind raised some questions about whether they’ve got what it takes to go all the way and lift the trophy this time. Ancelotti’s team are among the favorites at +390 but behind France, Argentina, England and Spain.
Good news and bad news for Ancelotti
Victories against Haiti, Scotland and Japan have lifted confidence in the Brazil camp and Ancelotti will be further boosted by Raphinha’s return although he is not expected to start against Norway.
One player who will definitely miss the game is Lucas Paquetá. He picked up a hamstring injury in the last round against Japan. In his pre-match press conference, the coach explained that either Gabriel Martinelli or Damilo Santos could occupy the right wing slot. In the end, Martinelli was given the nod.
Casemiro also took a knock in the Japan game but is expected to start.
Casemiro and right-back Danilo go into today’s clash both on a booking - if either receives a yellow card against Norway they will be suspended for the quarter finals, if Brazil advance.
Brazil’s confirmed starting XI against Norway at World Cup 2026
Alisson; Santos, Gabriel, Marquinhos (c), Danilo; Casemiro, Guimarães, Martinelli; Vinicius, Cunha, Rayan.
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