Brazil’s coach, Dorival Jr., confirmed that star striker Vinicius Jr will start in Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Venezuela on Thursday, filling in for Rodrygo, who was sidelined with a muscle injury. Vinicius Jr., who missed last month’s matches against Peru and Chile due to a neck injury, will now have his chance to shine as Brazil aims to strengthen its position in the South American qualifiers.
Dorival’s squad has faced significant injury setbacks, including Real Madrid defender Eder Militao, who will undergo ACL surgery following an injury sustained in a recent La Liga match. With Neymar also out due to a fresh hamstring injury, Brazil’s lineup will rely on younger stars and emerging talent to keep the momentum going. Neymar had recently returned from a knee injury to play for Al-Hilal but now faces another recovery period.
Coach Dorival addressed the challenges at a press conference, acknowledging the team’s recent injury struggles. “We’ve had complicated situations—one injury after another. Militao’s injury, now Rodrygo’s, and Neymar’s recovery…it’s challenging,” he stated. Despite the setbacks, he expressed optimism about the squad’s progress, adding, “We’re rooting for all of them and praying for a speedy recovery.”
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Brazil’s medical staff will also monitor midfielder Andre and left-back Guilherme Arana, who missed recent training sessions. The team will re-evaluate after the Venezuela match to determine if further adjustments are needed ahead of their clash with Uruguay.
Dorival highlighted the importance of building on their recent victories, which put Brazil in fourth place in the South American qualifiers with 16 points from 10 games. “If we can replicate the performances from our last two games, we’ll be building solid momentum. There’s a clear improvement in our play, even if it’s not yet what we aim for,” he commented.
With the spotlight on Vinicius Jr., Brazil fans are eager to see the young striker’s impact as they face Venezuela away on Thursday and prepare to host third-place Uruguay just days later.
