FIFA World Cup 2022: Qatar is ready to witness a global footballing spectacle from Sunday. Meanwhile, Brazil will be one of the sides to watch out for, and here is the SWOT analysis of the former five-time champion.
The stage is set for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which gets underway in Qatar on Sunday. While there are a few teams to watch out for, who are the favourites to lift the title, record five-time former champion Brazil is again the favourite to get the job done and extend its marvellous feat. The last time the Seleção Canarinha lifted the coveted championship title was during the 2002 edition in Korea, trumping Germany, with the side possessing legends like Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Roberto Carlos and more. While current top star Neymar has tried his luck in the last couple of editions and failed, he will leave no stone unturned this time. On the same note, we present the SWOT analysis of the side heading into the event.
Strengths
Brazil's forward department and its attacking line-up is undoubtedly its biggest strength. As for its strikers, Neymar, Firminio, Gabriel Jesus, and Vinicius Jr. would be a force to reckon with. While the Seleção Canarinha are expected to utilise these talents to the fullest, it would be engaging to see what formation it uses, which is likely to be 4-4-2.
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Weaknesses
While Brazil's forward department is a force, its defence has been unstable over the last few years, which is why it lost the Copa America final to arch-rival Argentina the previous year. While big names ruled the Seleção Canarinha's defensive line-up earlier, the onus would heavily be upon the veterans Dani Alves and Danilo. If Brazil fails, it would be primarily for this department.
Opportunities
It is always an opportunity for Brazil in the WC. Senior defensive-midfielder Casemiro has had an impressive stint at the club level, especially with the reigning Spanish and European champion Real Madrid. However, his impact on the Yellow Brigade has been marginal. While he will be Seleção Canarinha's defensive pillar, Vinicius Jr would be looking to make a name for himself with his striking abilities, the same way he is doing for Los Blancos and is often compared to French superstar Kylian Mbappe.
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Threats
While the Brazilians hardly have any threat against them, one notable factor is their inability to hold the ball, especially when they lead. One needs to play freely while at the lead, which Seleção Canarinha is a master at. However, its tendency to give the ball away and not hold onto it might cost it crucial opportunities.
BRA schedule for WC22 (IST):
Nov 24: vs Serbia - 12.30 AM (Nov 25)
Nov 28: vs Switzerland - 9.30 PM
Dec 2: vs Cameroon - 12.30 AM (Dec 3)
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BRA WC22 squad
GK: Alisson Becker, Ederson, Weverton
DEF: Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, Danilo, Alex Telles, Alex Sandro, Eder Militao, Bremer
MID: Bruno Guimarães, Casemiro, Lucas Paqueta, Fabinho, Fred, Everton Ribeiro
FWD: Neymar, Gabriel Jesus, Vinicius Junior, Antony, Richarlison, Raphinha, Rodrygo, Gabriel Martinelli, Pedro