Coach : Carlos Alberto Parreira
Won the 1994 World Cup in the United States and, after a hiatus, returned to one of the most unforgiving jobs in the game last year. There are still reservations about Parreira in his homeland but his side are favourites next summer.
Key Players
Emerson - The Juventus holding midfielder has expanded his game since the 2002 World Cup. A freak hand injury kept him out of that tournament which gave Gilberto his chance and he impressed as deputy. However, his fitness is crucial to Brazil's chances next summer.
Ronaldinho - Brazil have so much talent there are few positions where players are irreplaceable but the Barcelona man is genuinely crucial. Kaka possesses similar dribbling and passing skills but 'Ronnie' gives the whole side a lift with his almost super-human qualities.
Form Guide
A largely unspectacular qualifying campaign finished with a flourish as Parreira's side stole top spot from fierce rivals Argentina as Jose Pekerman's side lost to Uruguay in the last game.
Form Versus Countries In Group
Brazil have never played Australia in the World Cup. Against Japan they will meet former player Zico, who coaches the Asian side, when they meet for the first time at a World Cup finals. Croatia reached the semi-final in France in 1998 but were beaten by the hosts - to deny them a place in the final against Brazil.
Style Of Play
Very Brazilian but still not quite Brazilian enough for some people who believe the national side should be even more commanding in world football and that Parreira does not stick closely enough to his country's footballing ethos.
Group Verdict
Must finish top of their group and more than likely will. Croatia, Japan and Australia are all decent teams at this level but none of them are capable of matching the illustrious Brazilians. |
