Brazil World Cup Squad Preview

Written by Tony Concannon Wednesday, 02 June 2010 10:01

World Cup Squad Previews

Brazil are the only country to have appeared in every World Cup since its inception in 1930, and they have lifted the trophy a record five times in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002. In every World Cup they are one of the favourites to win the tournament, and it is certainly no different this time. Only Spain are ranked above them in the world rankings, and there can be no argument that they are currently the best two teams in the world.

However, a lot of Brazilian fans are not too enamoured with coach Dunga. Despite the fact that he has won 18 of his 23 games in charge, with the only defeat coming at altitude, the former World Cup-winning captain is heavily criticized in his homeland for his style of play. He favours a steady, solid, results-based game, whilst the fans demand style and samba over substance, and cry out to be entertained. The only way Dunga can save his job is by winning the World Cup.

The coach has also played safe with his squad selection, provoking further criticism. He has resisted pressure from the Brazilian media to include young Santos pair Neymar, aged 18, and Paulo Henrique Ganso (aged 20). He has also left out two-time world player of the year Ronaldinho. The AC Milan man hasn't played for Brazil for over a year, but has had a decent season in Serie A. Adriano has also been left at home, and barring injuries to others neither will be on the plane to South Africa.

Dunga has preferred to go with reliability and experience, keeping faith with the men that got Brazil to South Africa. Former Arsenal mifielder Gilberto Silva (now with Panathanaikos) is a favourite of the coach, typifying the reliable and efficient style that Dunga favours. There is still an incredible amount of flair in the squad and the key man for Brazil will be Real Madrid's midfield maestro Kaka. He has had a poor first season at the Bernabeu and he will be hoping to recapture the form that made Madrid pay such a ridiculous fee for him. The rest of the midfield doesn't look that strong, although keep an eye on Ramires of Benfica. He is dangerous on the break and moves fast with the ball at his feet. 

A lot will also rest on the goalscoring skills of Sevilla's prolific striker Luis Fabiano. He will be in with a shout for top goalscorer, as Brazil should at least make the semis. Manchester City striker Robinho, who was shipped out on loan to Santos for six-months last season is always dangerous, with or without gloves.
Brazil are usually top heavy in attack and light in defence, but it looks the other way round this time. They have possibly the best two right-backs in world football, with Inter Milan's Maicon and Daniel Alves of Barcelona. Alongside Maicon, Lucio has had an outstanding season for treble winners Inter and is an immense presence in central defense. Benfica's Luisao has impressed many this season and should partner Lucio in the middle, while Lyon's Michel Bastos is an extremely attacking left back. They are also blessed with three good keepers and Inter Milan's Julio Cesar should get the nod over Doni of Roma. Tottenham's Heurelho Gomes, the only player in the squad currently playing in England, is the third choice shot stopper. 

Brazil line up in Group H alongside Ivory Coast, Portugal and North Korea and should progress from the group and possibly as far as the semi finals. The Brazilians may not be as spectacular and flamboyant as previous World Cups, and although there may be less of the individual flair and flicks that they are famous for, Dunga has instilled a strong sense of solidarity, strength and team work. 

Despite this togetherness, they may lack a spark, and much will depend on whether Kaka can ignite his team mates into action. However, they should not be underestimated and no team at this World Cup will be able to move the ball from defence to attack as quick as Brazil.

Brazil squad:

Goalkeepers: Julio Cesar (Inter Milan), Doni (AS Roma), Gomes (Tottenham Hotspur)

Defenders: Maicon (Inter Milan), Daniel Alves (Barcelona), Michel Bastos (Olympique Lyon), Gilberto (Cruzeiro), Lucio (Inter Milan), Juan (AS Roma), Luisao (Benfica), Thiago Silva (AC Milan)

Midfielders: Gilberto Silva (Panathinaikos), Felipe Melo (Juventus), Ramires (Benfica), Elano (Galatasaray), Kaka (Real Madrid), Julio Baptista (Roma), Kleberson (Flamengo), Josue (VfL Wolfsburg).

Forwards: Robinho (Santos), Luis Fabiano (Sevilla), Nilmar (Villarreal), Grafite (VfL Wolfsburg) 

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