Footballing giants Brazil head to Far North Queensland for the first of a two game friendly series against the Socceroos this Friday night. Can the Socceroos take it up to one of the best sides in world football? We take you through our preview and prediction for their first friendly below!
And if you're keen to back in our best bet for the match, then why not do so at Ladbrokes? Simply click the link below to join.
Australia vs Brazil Preview & Betting Tips
Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Friday 25th September, 8:00pm AEST
Match Preview
The Socceroos suit up for their first game post the World Cup, which saw Australia advance out of the group stage for just the second time in their history. The tournament marked the start of a new era, with the likes of Nestory Irankunda, Jordy Bos, Alessandro Circati, Lucas Herrington, Paul Okon-Engstler, Mo Toure, Cristian Volpato and Patrick Beach establishing themselves as long term players for their country.
The Socceroos will bring a strong squad for the friendly series, with Mo Toure, Cristian Volpato and Jordy Bos the only notable absences. As expected Mat Ryan’s international career looks done, not being included in the squad which doesn’t come as a surprise after Patrick Beach’s performances at the World Cup.
Brazil have brought out a strong squad after a disappointing World Cup campaign, with Vinicius Jr, Raphina, Gabriel, Bruno Guimaraes, Marquinhos, Andrey Santos, Douglas Luiz, Endrick and Joao Pedro.
It’s the first step for Brazil en route to the 2028 Copa America, who will likely go through some transformation after taking an ageing squad to the World Cup this year.
The Socceroos have played Brazil 10 times, with Brazil comfortably leading the head to head count with a 7-2-1 record. The Last two games between the two nations resulted in wins for Brazil 6-0 in 2013 and 4-0 in 2017.
Match Prediction
Although this is a friendly, this will be a great litmus test for the Socceroos ahead of the Asian Cup, which kicks off in January. The talent that Australia has at their disposal currently gives them their best opportunity to win the tournament since 2015.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti will be desperate to produce some immediate performances, so although they may not have the desperation of a World Cup match, Ancelotti will have his team raring to go - or he may be out of a job.
There’s plenty of positivity around the Socceroos, however Brazil is a class above, the fifth ranked nation. Despite marked improvements this century, Australia have struggled against the historical powerhouses, with their only win against Brazil coming back in the 2001 Confederations Cup.
Under Tony Popovic the Socceroos have consistently sat back against opponents, giving them plenty of possession in the front third. Brazil will dominate possession and generate a lot of opportunities if Australia play in this manner, which should lead to a comfortable victory.
