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A Resurgent Philippe Coutinho Can Be Brazil’s Trump Card at 2014 World Cup
Published: January 9, 2014
Their reputations depend upon the results of, in some cases, just three matches and for no one is that more the case than 2002 World Cup winning manager Luiz Felipe Scolari, who has the unenviable task of ensuring Brazil come away from the tournament with a sixth success to their name.
The Selecao have only entered the tournaments as host nation on one previous occasion, in 1950, when a shock defeat to Uruguay in the final ensured they would have to wait a further eight years for their first global crown. It was a defeat, the “Maracanazo”, which would live long in the country’s memory and, in the case of unfortunate goalkeeper Batista, define careers.
Scolari, then, has little margin for error and his side’s success at the Confederations Cup last summer has only added to the expectation that a Brazil win at the tournament will likely be forthcoming. Early defeat would once more provoke much soul-searching and repercussions.
Forming the Squad
The 23 spaces in Brazil’s squad, then, must not be wasted. Three goalkeepers will be named, as per FIFA requirements, and then 20 players will provide options for the remaining 10 starting roles. While it may seem a simple case of two players for each position, that is not always the best use of available resources.
Eight of those spots will likely be occupied by defenders, with cover for both full-backs a necessity. One space could be gained, if there were suitable candidates to cover two roles, but Brazil has no standout option to fulfil such a role at present.
Two specialist defensive midfielders in Luiz Gustavo and Lucas Leiva will likely follow, along with Paulinho, Ramires and He...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football
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