Agencies

Group leaders Brazil, eight points adrift of second-placed Argentina in the 10-team South American World Cup qualifying table, have won all nine qualifiers so far. And they could make it 10 out of 10 when they take on hosts Colombia at the Estadio Metropolitano in the wee hours of Monday.

Their arch-rivals Argentina, who have been struggling to get close to a qualifying spot along with Brazil, would hope for faring better when they face Uruguay at home hours later.

In the 33 matches played between the two sides, Brazil hold a clear advantage over Colombia. The Selecao have won 20 games, lost three and drawn 10. The two countries last faced each other earlier this year, with Brazil beating Colombia 2-1.

Neymar is expected to return for Brazil after a suspension and he’s the only good news for the team after a below-par performance at Venezuela, who led the match till the 71st minute.

Lautaro Martinez is set to start for Argentina against Uruguay after he had missed their 0-0 draw against Paraguay due to a muscle injury. Lionel Messi is reportedly carrying a slight knock in his left foot but is expected to start as well. Beyond the fact that Marcos Acuna recovered from the muscular discomfort sustained in the last game, there is a chance that Nicolas Tagliafico can appear in his place.

The previous meeting between the two teams took place in the Copa America this year and ended in a 1-0 victory for Argentina, with Guido Rodriguez scoring the winner.