e-Football World Cup Spotlight - Brazil

Article by e-Sports Net's Lee Beevor

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For as long as I can remember, Brazil have been my second team. This is somewhat fortuitous, as being English and born after 1966, there has been little in the way of joy derived from my native country’s efforts. Brazil on the other hand, are not only flamboyant entertainers, but serial winners too. It is predominantly the style of their football that provides the allure, introduced by the brilliant teams of the 1970s and personified by Pele.

Of course they have adapted their game to incorporate modern tactics and defensive organisation. However, it is unacceptable for a Brazilian manager to win at all costs, with the nation demanding they triumph in a manner consistent with their proud history. In 1994, in lifting the World Cup for the fourth time, they demonstrated their maturity, after perishing by over attacking in preceding tournaments. With Dunga acting as a disciplined anchor in midfield, they were able to shield their defence to greater effect. The 0-0 final against Italy, subsequently won on penalties, was a dull affair as a result.

This victory was deemed unsatisfactory to many, as the trademark samba-style had been blunted by the need to avoid conceding. The emergence of the World Cup’s most prolific goal scorer thankfully restored the flair to Brazil, as Ronaldo’s electric pace and scintillating skills delighted us for the next decade. Whilst famously too ill to influence the final in 1998, he fired 8 goals in their march to their fifth title in South Korea four years later. As his star waned, so did that of his nation, although the skill level remained high with Ronaldinho and Kaka among the more notable to wear the yellow jersey.

With the World Cup returning to South America for the first time since 1986, Brazil are the favourites of many, including the bookmakers, to regain the title. Despite Spain’s dominance in recent times, the South Americans are expected to lead the challenge in 2014, mainly due to the climactic conditions. Whether they can cope with the pressure of an expectant population is another matter.

The Squad

Julio Cesar (Toronto FC), Jefferson (Botafogo), Victor (Atletico Mineiro)

Marcelo (Real Madrid), Daniel Alves (Barcelona), Maicon (AS Roma), Maxwell, Thiago Silva (both Paris St Germain), David Luiz (Chelsea), Dante (Bayern Munich), Henrique (Napoli)

Paulinho (Tottenham Hotspur), Ramires, Willian, Oscar (all Chelsea), Hernanes (Inter Milan), Luiz Gustavo (VfL Wolfsburg), Fernandinho (Manchester City) Bernard (Shaktar Donetsk)

Neymar (Barcelona), Fred (Fluminense), Jo (Atletico Mineiro), Hulk (Zenit St Petersburg) The squad is as always, formidable. With the vast majority plying their trade in Europe’s strongest leagues, defensive and tactical nous is well ingrained in this group. In terms of depth, it is immense, with options available in most positions.

Main Strength

Home advantage will be a huge factor, as whilst the host nation does not necessarily win, they do tend to fare well. However, an even greater asset is their back four, which looks fairly solid, with the full backs capable of causing opponents plenty of problems down the flanks. The midfield core possesses plenty of steel and intelligence to block off any potential spaces Alves and Marcelo may leave behind them.

Main Weakness

It seems strange to say this in conjunction with Brazil, but if anything, a lack of guile may hinder their progress. If Neymar does not produce, it is difficult to see where the magic will come from. Players such as Oscar may be talented, but their ability unlock the doors of well organised European defences is questionable.

Player to Watch

Neymar. He has flattered to deceive at times this season whilst at Barcelona, but back on home soil where he is revered, I expect him to step up. This will be as well, as in this Brazil side, much of the creative burden falls on his shoulders.

Predicted finish

Champions. The climate, the support and a very good team combine to give a scenario where I can foresee only a Brazilian triumph. To a large extent, it is folly to try and second guess their route to the final, but I have done so anyway! A probable last 16 outing against what is a weak Holland, will be followed by an eminently winnable quarter-final with either Italy, England, Uruguay, Ivory Coast, Columbia or Greece. After a testing semi-final with Germany, Spain or Argentina will await them in the final.

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