Brazil vs Chile
Expect a heavily-rotated Brazil to win comfortably against hapless Chile
**Brazil take on Chile at Estadio do Maracana in matchday 17 of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. **
Brazil confirmed their participation in the 2026 World Cup in June with a 1-0 victory over Paraguay, and Carlo Ancelotti has opted to shuffle his pack for these final couple of fixtures. Matheus Cunha has withdrawn through injury; however, the former Real Madrid boss has opted to leave Endrick, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo at home.
Ancelotti is unbeaten so far in his two games in charge, and this could be his easiest assignment yet. Nevertheless, the Selecao have already qualified, and many of the squad are only a few weeks into the current season and may not fancy busting a gut.
Brazil still have some notable names with Richarlison, Joao Pedro, Raphina, Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes all looking to impress.
Chile have endured a disastrous campaign and they are currently sitting at the bottom of the CONMEBOL qualifying group. Their hopes of reaching the FIFA World Cup are over; however, their target is merely to avoid picking up the wooden spoon.
They've won just two of their 16 matches during the qualifying period and haven't found the net on their travels for two years. Their last away goal came against Uruguay on September 8th 2023.
Having failed to score a competitive goal this calendar year, it was time for a change at the top, and Nicolas Cordova takes over from Ricardo Gareco. The new manager has overhauled the squad, opting for a very inexperienced set of players, including Ben Brereton Diaz, who has recently joined Derby County on loan. Many experienced players, including Alexis Sanchez and Charles Aranguiz, have been told to stay at home by the 46-year-old.
Chile are likely to be outclassed here, but Brazil may not get out of first gear. **Back the Selecao to win at a canter. **
Jack’s football journey began in the early 2000s at Bloomfield Road, sparking a lifelong passion for the EFL and beyond. With over a decade of writing and tipping experience, he delivers sharp insights and value-driven betting advice across football, darts, tennis, and horse racing.
When he’s not analysing stats, Jack is on commentary duty for Stoke City and occasionally heard at Owlerton Greyhound Stadium. Based in Leeds, he’s as reliable with a brew as he is with a bet.