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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Samuel Meade

Brazil could field second XI vs Cameroon which is as strong as their first at World Cup

Brazil were one of only three teams to book their place in the knockout stage with a game to spare at the World Cup.

Their win over Switzerland on Monday means they have the luxury of a relaxed final game, although they still need to ensure top spot. They take on Cameroon, who themselves need a win to qualify, but can afford to sit out some of their leading lights ahead of the last 16.

Brazil arrived in Qatar the favourites for World Cup glory and, with their star-studded squad, it is easy to see why. Even with Neymar out injured, boss Tite can still name an impressive starting XI as he searches for another victory and a clean sheet to boot. Should he decide to switch up his entire line-up, there is unlikely to be much of a drop-off.

The South Americans are reportedly set to make a host of changes, which underlines the depth they've bought to the World Cup. Already they are having to deal without Neymar, who is battling to get back to full fitness ahead of the knockout stage.

Nevertheless, their so-called second-string includes a raft of trophy-winners and names who play crucial roles at club level. Manchester City's Ederson is poised to start in goal ahead of Liverpool's Alisson, with the debate over who is better continuing to rumble on.

Eder Militao, himself a Champions League winner, would command the defence alongside Gleison Bremer, who moved from Torino to Juventus in the summer. Dani Alves has amassed over 100 caps and has a wealth of experience and would come into the fold, with Alex Telles completing the back four.

How far will Brazil go in the World Cup? Tell us what you think here.

The highly-rated Bruno Guimaraes has only appeared from the bench so far at this World Cup. The Newcastle midfielder has been a sensation in the Premier League having joined the Magpies just shy of a year ago and is already being linked with the likes of Real Madrid.

Los Blancos star Rodrygo, who has scored seven times this term, would come in for club team-mate Vinicius Junior. Arsenal pair Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli have been crucial to the Gunners' unlikely title charge and are brimming with confidence.

Their link-up play has already seen several defences wilt this season and they could be given the opportunity to continue that in the Middle East. Antony, who became Manchester United's second-most expensive player in history this summer, would complete the attack.

Potential Brazil starting XI: Ederson, Alves, Militao, Bremer, Telles; Fabinho, Guimaraes; Antony, Rodrygo, Jesus; Martinelli

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