Copa America, Brazil vs Venezuela: Reinforcements ready as Selecao seek to step up

Tite could shuffle his pack for Brazil's Copa America clash with Venezuela in Bahia following the return to fitness of two players.

Brazil will hope Arthur Melo comes good as it takes on Venezuela in its second Copa America tie.

Barcelona midfielder Arthur and new Real Madrid man Eder Militao should be available for Brazil's second Copa America match against Venezuela in Bahia.

Arthur, 22, has shaken off knee pain and could reportedly replace Fernandinho in Tite's starting XI, while defender Militao is back in training following a hip issue.

Neither player featured as Brazil secured an ultimately comfortable 3-0 victory over Bolivia in the tournament opener.

Philippe Coutinho's brace and a fine late strike from substitute Everton helped to pacify the home fans after a goalless first half prompted jeers.

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Tite subsequently encouraged his players to "understand" the criticism and captain Dani Alves accepted the challenge of meeting high expectations.

"Every time we put on that shirt, we have to prove we can wear it," Alves said.

"We represent a historical selection, respected throughout the world. We always have to carry that responsibility. We have to defend this story with great honour."

Brasil venceu a Bolívia no 1º jogo, enquanto Venezuela e Peru empataram na final da primeira rodada do Grupo A .@CONMEBOL#CopaAmericapic.twitter.com/nMJZtQteqa

— Copa América (@CopaAmerica) June 16, 2019

 

Brazil should have the chance to click into top gear against Venezuela, a team they have beaten in six of seven Copa America meetings.

Rafael Dudamel's men disappointed in a drab 0-0 draw against Peru, creating few scoring chances despite being able to call on Salomon Rondon, while Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez was an unused substitute. 

Luis Mago's dismissal for two yellow cards in that match leaves Venezuela needing to find an alternative at left-back.

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PLAYERS TO WATCH

Brazil - David Neres

Ajax's Neres will hope to have another opportunity to cement a starting berth with Brazil after falling to the fringes of the Bolivia match. More performances like the ones he delivered during the Champions League could beef up his price tag, with Premier League side Everton reportedly keen to unite him with compatriot Richarlison.

Venezuela - Jhon Murillo

Barely seen in his 84 minutes against Peru, Venezuela needs more from winger Murillo in order to trouble Brazil. The 23-year-old Tondela attacker has the pedigree to make an impact: he has already scored international goals against Argentina and Mexico in 2019.