PHILADELPHIA — The entire nation of Brazil, including fans, media, and perhaps even Christ the Redeemer, was eager for a turnaround following the disappointing 1-1 draw against Morocco in their opening match of the FIFA World Cup Group C last week. While the draw may have been less disappointing given that Brazil sits one spot ahead of Morocco in the FIFA World Ranking (sixth to Morocco’s seventh), the expectations are naturally higher for a squad adorned with five stars on their jersey.
The Brazilians rebounded with a convincing 3-0 win against Haiti, clinching the match by halftime. Notably, several players who faced heavy criticism after the match against Morocco improved their performances, such as Lucas Paquetá and Casemiro. Meanwhile, players like Roger Ibañez and Igor Thiago didn’t even play, aligning with public sentiment for change.
Additionally, Matheus Cunha netted two goals, showcasing his potential as a World Cup center forward, while Vinícius Júnior delivered an outstanding performance with a goal and an assist, appearing far more involved than in the previous match against Morocco.
However, not everything is settled.
– Neymar is expected to return for Brazil vs. Scotland
– It’s (finally) acceptable to dream big about the USMNT at the World Cup
– Can Bielsa’s Uruguay halt their World Cup decline?
Raphinha had to leave the field due to injury in the 39th minute and will undergo tests to evaluate the damage. His replacement, Rayan, who is only 19, brings an entirely different skill set, as highlighted by coach Carlo Ancelotti post-match; this suggests that Brazil will need to adjust their strategy if the Barcelona star is unavailable.
Moreover, while Brazil showcased their technical dominance, it’s worth noting that they were facing Haiti. After a high-intensity start from Haiti, they eventually wore down, allowing Brazil’s skill to shine through.
Yes, you can only defeat the challenge in front of you, but many observers remain unconvinced. That said, Ancelotti himself might be assured.
When asked if Friday’s performance would be sufficient against a stronger opponent like France, Ancelotti responded, “Every game is hard. France is obviously stronger than Haiti. But I believe we can compete with anyone, including France … and Haiti.”
It is also evident that Ancelotti needs to implement several contingency plans. Despite Cunha’s two-goal contribution, he remained noncommittal about using him as the center forward in the next match, saying: “For this game, Mateus Cunha was the right profile to create problems for their defense … he could be a viable option for the next game … or I might opt for someone else.”
Why this uncertainty? Partly because Cunha might be required in a deeper role, similar to his responsibilities at Manchester United, and also because he doesn’t want to dismiss other options such as Igor Thiago or highly-touted talent Endrick.
The young striker, who turns 20 on Sunday, has been viewed by some Brazilian media outlets as the solution to their center forward dilemma, despite his meager record of only six goals for club and country in the previous year. Endrick entered the match to enthusiastic applause, had a goal ruled out, and otherwise didn’t make much impact. If he is to be the answer in the scoring department, it will depend on how opposing teams challenge Brazil, not just on raw talent.
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Brazilian players react to their 3-0 victory over Haiti
Ancelotti’s plans also involve adjustments to the team’s formation. After Paquetá, the team’s most reliable passer, exited the game, the coach switched to a makeshift 4-2-4 setup, positioning Gabriel Martinelli and Rayan on the wings, with Vinícius and Endrick centrally located.
This formation, which effectively circumvents the midfield, is an innovative approach given the shortage of passing midfielders and abundance of wingers. The shift also positions Vinícius closer to the goal, crucial given his current form.
“Vini was a threat in that role, not only with his one-on-one abilities but also with his movement and passing; he had an excellent match,” Ancelotti noted before humorously adding, “Will this be Vini’s World Cup? I hope not; I want it to be Brazil’s World Cup!”
While the Seleção required a mental pick-me-up, this result should suffice, despite a decline in intensity during the second half, which is understandable as they sought to conserve energy for upcoming matches. “We must also consider the matches ahead,” Ancelotti remarked.
However, reflecting on Ancelotti’s earlier comment about Brazil’s ability to “compete” with anyone feels somewhat low for a country with such a strong soccer legacy. In the spirited city of Rocky Balboa, this mentality might not resonate well. After all, when Adrian awoke from her coma in “Rocky II,” she didn’t exclaim, “Compete, Rocky, compete!” but rather “WIN!”
Yet for this Brazil squad, which, while talented, may not be the most gifted team in the tournament, this mindset could be their route to victory. In some instances, they may need to rely on tenacity, cunning, and teamwork to outmaneuver their rivals, much like Rocky did.