There will be fireworks when Brazil and Colombia play in a much-awaited Group D match. Brazil overcame Paraguay 4-1 in their second group game, swiftly recovering from a startling goalless draw with Costa Rica.
Natural Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, who scored two goals against Miguel Almiron and Co., will be the focus of attention as usual. Still, Barcelona player Raphinha is vying for a start.
While Los Cafeteros want to maintain their perfect record in Copa America in 2024, defeating the South American titans at Levi's Stadi will be difficult.
Considering this, one point from the Group D Derby should satisfy both teams. Speaking of the putative visitors, Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi is still in the recovery room, while Crystal Palace midfielder Jefferson Lerma has overcome his injury. Luis Diaz of Liverpool should be kept at bay by the opposing backline.
Head To Head And Previous Matches
For more than thirty minutes on Friday, the Brazilians were experiencing a similar scenario, missing a penalty,y among other chances.
Dorival Junior's team did, however, eventually find a breakthrough and poured it on, winning 5-1 over Bolivia, their best win since September 2023.
Before Friday, Verde-Amarela had lost their previous three games against CONMEBOL opponents; their victory on matchday two snapped a four-game losing streak.
They, therefore, have to avoid losing on matchday three to go past the group stage for the 14th time in their previous 15 Copa America appearances.
They were eliminated from the group stage in 2016 after being defeated 1-0 by Peru on their last day of play in the United States.
Even though Junior took over as manager, this squad has performed better defensively in this competition, giving up just one goal in their three previous games.
The Colombians will make their sixth consecutive appearance in the competition's last eight after another clinical performance; Los Cafeteros have won six games in a row and are unbeaten in 25 games this season.
Should they win on matchday three, they will be guaranteed to top their group and finish this round with nine points for the first time since 2019.
Not since a 3-2 come-from-behind triumph over Mexico in December last year did Nestor Lorenzo's team give up a goal in the first half.
On the last three occasions, the Colombians have given up the first goal in a game they have won, the most recent being the previously mentioned victory over the Mexicans last year.
Having defeated Brazil 2-1 in a World Cup qualifying match last November, La Tricolor can win consecutive games against them on Tuesday for the first time.
Our Predictions
Full-time draw @3.65 on Sky247.ng
Though Brazil has the inside track on second place, three points over Costa Rica with a +3 goal differential and Los Ticos at -3, both sides may be looking long-term, with the Colombians already qualified for the next round.
As neither team wants to take a chance on injuries or bans, we anticipate a tight but exciting match with some talented young players to shine.
Elevate your betting experience with Sky247 Nigeria. Join now and discover a thrilling world of sports, live events, and exclusive bonuses. Bet with confidence on your favorite teams and games.