Figure 1: Timnas Brasil (Twitter @CBF_Futebol)
As five-time winners of the inaugural World Cup trophy, the expectations placed on the Brazilian national team are always far higher than any other country. With a talented squad, full of notorious Brazilian flair, the upcoming tournament is a perfect opportunity for the ‘Selecao’ to add a sixth World Cup to their already rich footballing history.
World Cup Record
1930 – Group 1982 - Round 2
1934 - Round 1 1986 - Quarter final
1938 - Third 1990 - Last 16
1950 - Runners-up 1994 - Winners
1954 - Quarter Final 1998 - Finalists
1958 - Winners 2002 - Winners
1962 - Winners 2006 - Quarter Final
1966 - Group 2010 - Quarter Final
1970 - Winners 2014 - Fourth
1974 - Fourth 2018 - Quarter Final
1978 - Third 2022 - ?
Brazil’s record at the world’s largest tournament, quite frankly, is obscene. Having qualified for every single World Cup since it’s creation, this is a team which is very hard to bet against.
To add to any fears that potential opposition may already have, the Brazilians are well and truly back to their best. It is clear to see through their immense form in qualifying, where they scored 40 goals and conceded only five while going unbeaten, that Tite’s men are oozing confidence and gunning for another World Cup triumph.
Strengths
Unpredictable, ominous, and fierce, the Brazilian team come into this year’s tournament as an unfamiliar outfit to a large portion of their competitors. Having not played against a European side since March 2019, it is the longest period that they have not faced someone from this part of the world since 1954.
In combination with a team full of world class talent, this unusual streak of anonymousness will massively play into Brazil’s hands, as it somewhat lifts the pressure that comes with their huge reputation. With two European nations in their group, Brazil will be hoping to capitalise on this fact and build up some vital early tournament momentum.
Finally, it’s impossible to talk about the current Brazilian team and not mention the genius of Neymar. The 30-year-old superstar is idolised both in his home nation and globally; many of these supporters believe he is the man to return the World Cup to Brazil. His form at PSG this season has reflected his brilliance, racing to 20 goals and assists after just 14 games. Brazilian fans will be hoping that Neymar can reach his extraordinary heights and win the World Cup he deserves.
Weaknesses
Despite being blessed with an abundance of talent throughout their squad, there is one area of concern which massively stands out. Over the years, Brazil has been infamous for producing attacking and highly skilful full backs. Roberto Carlos, Marcelo, Dani Alves and Cafu have all provided their team with an unorthodox attacking threat.
In Qatar, however, their full back options do not look as threatening: Dani Alves long past his best, Alex Sandro who’s in and out of the Juventus team and Danilo who is often being played as a back three. What is lacking in attacking flair, however, is made up for in balance for the overall team. Even though it goes against Brazilian traditions, these full backs are good enough to help see their team to victory.
Brazil Predicted Line-up. Credit: Chosen 11
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