Brazil are the only team to have figured in every World Cup final from the time the event began, in 1930. In this year’s edition, the five times champions are arguably placed in the toughest group G, along with Ronaldo-led Portugal, Drogba inspired Ivory Coast, and North Korea.
Brazil will aim to head their group, so as to meet the second team from group H, most likely, Chile. They will be tested by Ronaldo-led Portugal, and should they fail the test, will probably have to face Spain, in the second round. Incidentally, European champions Spain are the bookmakers’ favourite at this world cup, and Brazil could face the prospect of an early exit. Assuming that the South Americans do head their group, and meet Chile, their strongest challenge is likely to be the Netherlands, in the quarter final, possibly followed by England in the semi-final.
Barring a 2-1 defeat by Bolivia, Brazil had an excellent campaign en route to qualifying for the 2010 finals. The 2009 Confederation Cup was the icing. Coach Dunga who is yet to announce the final squad of 23, has an embarrassment of riches, to choose from, with the likes of Luis Fabiano and Robinho in the forward line, Kaka and Luis Ramires in midfield, and Julio Cesar in goal. That a midfielder of the calibre of Ronaldinho is not assured of a place in Dunga’s team is sufficient proof of Brazil’s strength.
Can you blame Brazil’s army of fans for licking their lips in anticipation?