Preview: Seleção hoping to extend win streak at the expense of Zambia
The five time World champions have been mesmerising upon Luiz Felipe Scolari’s second coming only losing twice in 2013 against England and Switzerland. With the World Cup drawing closer, Seleção have hit form at the right time and the football-mad Brazilian fans are hopeful of their side once again revelling on the international stage.
If they beat Zambia on Tuesday, it will be Brazil’s fourth consecutive victory. Last time out Scolari’s side defeated South Korea 2-0 courtesy of a sublime free kick from Barcelona man Neymar and a second half strike from Chelsea playmaker Oscar.
Prior to their match against South Korea, Brazil had also scored a 3-1 victory against a Ronaldo-less Portuguese side and thrashed Australia 6-0. Much of Brazil’s excellent recent performances have been down to their young star Neymar who has steadily silenced all his critics with his excellent performances on the pitch.
The 21 year old had opinions divided on him upon making his 57 million Euro move to Spanish outfit Barcelona. But the Brazilian star has been very much worth the money so far, producing inspiring performances for both club and country.
The former Santos man has scored in four of the last five matches for his country and despite his young age he will be integral to Brazil’s World Cup 2014 journey.
Brazil will be against a manager-less Zambia side after former manager Herve Renard left his post as Zambian coach to take charge of French club Sochaux last week.
The French international failed to guide Zambia to the World Cup after finishing second to Ghana in Group D. Renard’s side was involved in a final game showdown against the Black Stars in September which they lost 2-1, as a result of which they failed to qualify for the illustrious tournament.
Patrice Beaumelle who was Renard’s assistant during his time as Zambia manager has now taken in charge of the national team on a temporary basis.
Scolari on the other hand will use the friendly against Zambia to determine his strongest eleven. The Brazilian has a host of talented players at his expense and will be willing to give them game time to prove their worth ahead of the World Cup next year.
The likes of Alexandre Pato, Ramires and Hernanes are expected to be given a run in the first team in a bid to prove their credentials for a starting berth.
With an injury to first choice keeper Julio Cesar, Scolari has included three Brazilian based goalkeepers Jefferson (Botafogo), Victor (Atlético Mineiro), and Diego Cavalieri (Fluminense) in the squad, all of whom will be hoping to make a statement in the upcoming friendlies.
Brazil will also be without their talismanic captain Thiago Silva who has been replaced Cruzeiro defender Dedé.
Where to watch the match – live stream, start time, TV channels, Live scores
Watch Brazil vs Zambia live on Tuesday, October 15, 2013:
In Canada at 7:45 on beIN Sport Play Canada
In UK at 12:45 BST on BT Sport 1
In USA at 7:45 ET on beIN Sport Play
Fans based in Australia can watch the match live on ESPN2 Australia.
For complete details of match listings and live scores, visit the Brazil vs Zambia match page.
