The North American World Cup qualifiers begin on Friday, with Brazil, the continent’s biggest team, playing Bolivia in Sao Paulo. It’s the first round of action after teams like Argentina and Uruguay won their first title on Thursday. Brazil is expected to do well for the 2022 World Cup without much trouble during this tournament, while Bolivia has not participated in the World Cup since 1994.
Here’s how you can watch the match and what to know:
Display information
History: Friday, October 9 | time, 8:30 PM ET
Your site: Neo Química Arena – Sao Paulo, Brazil
TV: None | Live broadcast: Fanatiz USA (pay-per-view)
the odds: Brazil-4000; Draw 1100 +, Bolivia +4000 (via William Hill Sportsbook)
Storylines
Brazil: All eyes will be on whether Neymar will play like He was dealing with some back issues, But let’s be honest here – without him, Brazil still has to roll. In their last meeting in the Copa America, Brazil won 3-0 in a match that was goalless in the intermission. Expect them to dominate the ball, to have plenty of chances early and to have that chance by an hour.
Bolivia: Stay tuned for midfielder Antonio Bustamante. The Club Blooming midfielder is an interesting, talented player with strong ties to the United States. He was actually born in Virginia, played college football at William & Mary and was with DC United under a local contract. He played for MLS in the US Open Cup, was loaned out to Loudoun United and then joined the Bolivian First Division. He previously played for Bolivia’s U-23 national team.
prediction
Neymar gets the start, but he doesn’t need him. Brazil dominate with goals from Richarlison and Everton Sebolinha. Picking: Brazil 4, Bolivia 0
