How Brazil Will Line Up Against Chile

There is no doubt about it—Brazil are on fire. A solid defence, electrifying attack and experienced coach are combining in the desired fashion, helping the Selecao rain goals on their friendly opponents. 

After thrashing Honduras 5-0, a sterner challenge awaits. Chile, fresh from downing England in an impressive performance, await the World Cup hosts in Toronto. 

Luiz Felipe Scolari took the opportunity on Saturday to try out a range of fringe players, who responded magnificently to the challenge. Will the likes of Bernard and Maicon keep their place for the next challenge, or will Felipao revert to the starters to avoid an upset against the improving Roja?  

Goalkeeper

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While the fluency of Brazil's attacking play against an uncompromising Honduras side was encouraging, one of the most important figures to the Selecao was on the bench.

After missing several encounters through injury, Julio Cesar rejoined the squad. 

The QPR stopper deputised for Victor throughout the match, and did not see action. Against Chile, however, the experience of the 34-year-old could prove vital should Scolari choose to reintroduce him to first-team duties. 

Defence

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There will be more taxing tests ahead, but an alternative back line kept a valuable clean sheet against Honduras, which confirmed Brazil's strength in depth in defence. 

Particularly encouraging was the contribution of Maicon. The veteran right-back was drafted in due to an injury to Dani Alves, per the Miami Herald, and capped an impressive display with a goal. Maxwell and Dante also started, and kept Victor relatively peaceful in goal. 

The three, plus regular starter David Luiz, should keep their place against the ever-dangerous Chile attack. 

Midfield

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With the excellent Paulinho a fixture in midfield, Luiz Gustavo, Lucas Leiva and Ramires are left to fight out the second pivot position in Scolari's 4-2-3-1 system. Gustavo started and worked diligently screening the defence, while the latter pair both made an entrance during the 90 minutes. 

Paulinho should maintain his place against Chile, with the big decision coming down to who will accompany the Tottenham star. Ramires was in encouraging form off the bench, and could get the nod from the start on Tuesday. 

Further forward, Brazil will see how Neymar progresses after taking a fair percentage of Honduras' hard knocks at the weekend. Bernardo enjoyed an inspired debut, while both Hulk and Willian excelled off the bench to give Felipao a welcome selection headache.  

Attack

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Out of all the starters against Honduras, Jo was perhaps the sole man left with a bittersweet taste. The solitary forward never really got going, and watched after half-time as replacement Robinho stole the show with an impressive display. 

After two years in the international wilderness, the Milan star's return gives Scolari another option up front, although Jo represents the more physical alternative. Willian, who came on for his third cap and found the net, could also lead the line.  

Possible Brazil XI vs. Chile

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Julio Cesar

Maicon, Dante, David Luiz, Maxwell

Paulinho, Ramires

Hulk, Oscar, Neymar

Robinho