England vs Brazil: A Preview and Projected Lineups of the FA’s 150th Anniversary Clash at Wembley

What could be better than kicking off The Football Association’s 150th anniversary with a match between two international powerhouses of England and Brazil at the storied Wembley Stadium?  According to Managing Director Adrian Bevington:

“As the most successful footballing nation, with great players and supporters, it will be fantastic to launch this important year in English football’s history against such outstanding opponents as Brazil.”

For England, Roy Hodgson may have a tough time fielding an “ideal” starting XI as many players are out with injury.  Jermain Defoe (ankle injury) and Michael Carrick (hip) both did not feature for their respective clubs at the weekend, while Daniel Sturridge (thigh injury) was the latest to be ruled out for the upcoming international friendly.

Both England and Brazil will come into this match in search for a win to spring-board their confidence as World Cup 2014 qualifying continues shortly.  The Three Lions resume qualification on March 13th against San Marino, whereas Brazil have already qualified as the host country.

If Ashley Cole features for Hodgson’s side the defender will receive his 100th cap for his country making him the seventh player all-time to do so for England.  Despite this incredible feat for Cole, England have had quite a poor record against the South American’s as England have won only three of their 23 meetings all-time.

Defenders of Gary Cahill, Leighton Baines and Phil Jagielka must be aways aware of Santos striker Neymar as he is capable of producing moments of brilliance at any moment.  On the opposite end of the spectrum is the aging yet resurgent Ronaldinho as he will look to hopefully secure his place in Brazil’s World Cup roster in the coming year.  Although Ronaldinho may not be capable of running box to box any longer, his world-renowned skill and vision could cause trouble for Hodgson’s side.

Luis Felipe Scolari’s side should also keep an eye out for Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard.  Both midfielders continue to provide veteran leadership for their club teams and could likely form an excellent partnership in the middle of the park.  As Wayne Rooney continues to provide crucial goals for Manchester United, it would come to no surprise if the England international bags a few goals.

The Brazilian style comes to no surprise to the world as every single player likes to get forward.  Daniel Alves will likely spray in crosses from the right hand flanks while David Luiz is no stranger to the attacking third.  As Brazil continues to press, England’s best bet may be counter-attack style football, and to maintain possession as much as possible.

In form QPR goalkeeper Julio Cesar will likely get the starting nod for his exceptional play for Harry Redknapp’s side.  Cesar has been instrumental in QPR’s success as of late to help escape the relegation zone.  On the other hand his counterpart Joe Hart has also been in scintillating form this season making some exceptional saves to keep Manchester City within eight points of rivals Manchester United in the EPL.

Prediction: 2-2 (Goals: Wayne Rooney (2), Luis Fabiano, Ronaldinho

England Projected Starting Lineup: Joe Hart; Ashley Cole, Phil Jagielka, Gary Cahill, Leighton Baines; Theo Walcott, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Jack Wilshere; Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck

Brazil Projected Starting Lineup: Julio Cesar; Daniel Alves, David Luiz, Dante, Filipe Luis; Ramires, Oscar, Lucas Moura; Ronaldinho, Neymar; Luis Fabiano