Expectations… Results or Beautiful Game?

Still waiting for the Maestro Ronaldinho to show his skils… he can also be the reason for beautiful Brazil to happen.

Why is Parreira so resistant to demanding beautiful football from the team? It is not good enough just to win, because we know we can do better. Why does he want Brasil to be just another team playing hack football?
We have seen glimpses of the Brasilian way with the “second” team in the Japan game. The difference in my mind is the desire and focus of the players. Those that want to win for Brasil have put their egos aside. Those that are chasing their own agendas have made it clear by not passing to their open teammates for the easy goal. Look at the style of passing from the Japan game to yesterday’s. Since when does Brasil play so many long balls (like England), instead of building the attack? Parreira and all old timers, the records have been broken now; let us play those who now want to win for their country and who are carrying the torch of the beautiful game to the next generation. Go Brasil!

i still think Adriano should keep his starting place

ronaldo and adriano are slowly getting better

also u cant leave out a player who has scored 2 wc goals in 3 appearances imo

will make him lose confidence (adriano that is)

I want to remind what Blatter said today, he was basically saying this is the best WC ever (does he think we’re blind?) and that if Germany keeps playing with the same enthusiasm, nobody can stop them

Translation: FIFA doesn’t want Brazil to win again, they want Germany to win the WC.

A sixth Brazil title would result in decreased interest in the WC. So the French scenario seems to be coming back.

What I want to say is that if we follow the conspiration theory logic, you can easily explain why Brazil doesn’t play at 100% and why Ronaldinho’s performance has been so unsatisafactory so far.

The first two games Brazil started slow as usual, Ronaldo wasn’t fit, Adriano was slow, OK, we might accept it. What we can’t accept is the fact that even when they scored and the other team tried to play a more open game, they were wtill passing to each other in their own half and not attacking as usual.

The next two games only confirmed the trend. Japan made a huge mistake by scoring once, which kind of woke Brazil up. Then we got 20 minutes of what we should have seen 360 minutes so far and it was quickly 3:1, and then they stopped playing again. Ghana game was the same; they could have won 10:0 if they tried to run and attack just a little bit more; they didn’t do it.

It seems that Brazil players are either “saving” themselves or they don’t want to play as well as they can and win by wide margins so in the end when Germany beats them and win the WC it will look justifiable to say “Hey, Brazil was not playing well the whole tournament, they are just not that good as we thought, that’s why Germany beat them”

I hope I am wrong. We’ll see in less thant two weeks what will happen.

I seriosly dont give a damn how the play as long as its good enough to win.

that was part of what i said in my other post, “Results” and “Beautiful”, the problem is that football brazil is playing its not even meant to “results”, playing bad and almost losing and giving chance to the other team to score a goal, i wouldnt complain if it was all set right, having possession of ball, players moving around and making chances of goal, but then it from “football result” it would turn on as “Beautiful football” means a football well played, that football result thing is an excuse when the team is playing bad and win the game.

parreira fooled everyone putting the subs to play against japan, since him didnt have nothing to lose.

I agree with u GM.
They don’t want Brazil to win again, it would endanger the soccer business.
Motivation would go down, sales would go down , people would just be tired of always hearing brazil win. Which is y the team is doing just what it needs to win (to get to the finals becoz after all fifa does want to offer a great Final game between 2 powerhouse and let’s be honest Brazil playing in a final is entertainment even if they are not palying right, everyone is still expecting the beast to wake up and provide good soccer). However the goal is for them not to play 2 well so they can loose against germnay.

Sucks to be a brazilian fan right now. Am not enjoying the games as much as i used to. Win is nothing without life and passion in the game

I’m not a conspiracy believer like you GM but I understand completely your point. As I wrote, Parreira is the name of our problem. He is always hitting the breaks after scoring and that is just anti-brazilian style.

There are many other interesting conspiracy theories and I’ll try to expose one on this blog later.

I have to say that my take on at least the Ghana game’s score is that Cafu and the others who had late scoring chances (one-on-one vs. the goalie) purposefully blew them by kicking soft balls into the goalie’s arms. If you watch Cafu, he even smiles and shrugs a bit as if to say, “here’s the ball” or “I did that on purpose.” I think Brazil was showing sportsmanship against a team that was clearly beaten and beaten badly. Ghana had all but stopped trying to defend counter-attacks, which is why there were so many late one-on-one chances for Brazil.

Brazil is still the co-favorite (with host Germany) to win it all. Don’t get discouraged. They will step it up a lot against France.

GM: I think the players are saving themselves. I don’t buy the conspiracy stuff – even if something were pre-arranged, why would ALL of Brazil’s players buy into it? Someone would speak up!

In a tournament like this, a big part of winning is pacing. When Parreira said Brazil would improve with each game, he was telling the truth. But not only was this a prediction, it’s the only way to win a World Cup.

As each game passes, Brazil needs to win one less game in order to take the trophy. Simple math. So as the tournament progresses, the players will save themselves a lot less… Ronaldo’s problem at first was fitness, other problems at first were general team play. But now, I firmly believe it is about pacing.

I think in the past, the “curse of the favorites” may have happened because the favorite-teams were trying to do too much from the first minute of play. Would you rather see Brazil defeat Croatia 4-0 in the first game, or have them win another World Cup?

For those who watched Spain, you know what I mean.

I’m not saying Brazil will win for sure, but over-playing when there was no need against Ghana could have severely lowered their chances!

Hi John,

Cafu did not score that goal because he is not goal scorer, Ronaldinho was begging for him to pass the ball to him but he didn’t. Cafu is trying to end his career in a big note, he’s been selfish, I could tell. I’d replace him with Cicinho in a heartbeat.Also, Roberto Carlos should be out!

Sophia

John – that’s silly – Cafu smiles and shrugs to apologise for the foul he committed on the Ghana defender – it was a foul that was called and play restarted with a free kick not a goal kick.

Brasil got exactly the goals they deserved with the way they played – none in open play and three by breaking a very naive offside trap – although credit to Kaka on the first goal – that was a truly awesome pass to put Ronaldo clear – perfectly placed and perfectly timed to keep Ronaldo onside. I’m surprised more people don’t mention that – it was the play of the game – much better than Ricardinho’s for Ze Roberto. Anyway the point is that Perreira was right – the 3-0 scoreline flattered Brazil a 2-1 result would have been much more accurate based on the play on the field. And, in fact, Brazil only scored 2 real goals.

To suggest that Brazil could and should have done ‘better’ is to really insult Ghana. I just wish Essien had been playing – that game would have been 2-2 at full time.

When you reach the pinnacle of a sport, as Brasil has done, the expectations reach a level not demanded of other teams. So far, in this World Cup, Brasil has won all games, scored 10 goals (as many as Germany and Argentina) and allowed only 1 against. And yet, everyone says they are not playing well. To me, it seems like they have been improving every game and are just starting to hit their stride.

There is a lot to be said for the “jogo bonito” (beautiful game) and no team does it like Brasil. But, in the final analysis, people will only remember if they won and not how beautifully they played.

To all of my Brasilian friends: “Hang in there – everything will be fine once you win your hexa-campeao”.

As for the conspiracy theories, I don’t put much store by them. The marketing Gods know a good thing when they see it, and a team like Brasil, with a world-wide following, translates into billions of dollars in sales. To deliberately keep them out a championship is to throw money away – and FIFA is, first and foremost, a mutinational business.

I don’t believe in conspiracy theories either. I think part of the problem has a lot to do with Parreira. He is very conservative for good reasons. He himself said, wich I happen to agree with, in the end people will only remember if you won the championship more as opposed to how beautifully you played.
The dilemna though is by puting the break on the team’s ability to score, he’s running the risk of allowing teams back into the game. Likewise, by not revering to a defensive posture after scoring, Brazil has historically been awful by letting other teams back into the game. A perfect example is the Holland-Brazil game in 94.
Either way, there’s a price to pay. So, I think Parreira elects to stay defensive. And apparently, he seems to be pushing all the right buttons because Brazil has yet to loose a WC game under this watch, a total of 11 of those. Not bad at all

I think that Parreira is doing a bad work with our team.
Juninho is a very good player and i think that parreira may give him a chance in the game against France.
Ronaldinho is the best player in thw whole world but he inst playing very well because he is playing in another position he is a Scorer he need to SCORE and to help Ronaldo and Adriano.I think that Robinho must be the titular because he is showing us that he is thin, fast and wanting to play.

If Brazil had been played a poor match and even, reached a scored 3-0 against Ghana, imagine how it ill be when they try to play a litte better.
By the way, I agree with the most of you. The best options for the team is Robinho.

No question Victor! Juninho and Robinho (along with Gilberto Silva) need to play against France!

Don’t worry about Brazil or Germany winning the WC because ENGLAND are the best side in the world!

Beautiful game or results? I predict both this Saturday. France doesn’t have the speed – they will crumble under Brasil’s counter-attack. And the patience we saw against Spain, will also falter if Brasil dictates the pace.

Brasil has sent some mixed signals so far – now they have to play at their full potential. Time for Ronaldinho to step up and I’m sure Robinho will inspire better teamwork.

http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/w/bypa/eligible.html

VOTE FOR CRISTIANO RONALDO FOR THE BEST PLAYER! BEFORE JULY 7!

To think FIFA doesn’t want Brazil to win again is ridiculous. No other team has received more help to win games and championships from FIFA officials for more than 10 years than Brazil. In ‘94 FIFA essential gave Brazil the cup by allowing Tafarel to come off his goal line almost to the PK spot to stop and shot and allowed Romario to make an illegal move in his run-up to his PK, in which he scored. In 2003, against Brazil was awarded PKs for infringements outside the box, they had the opposition’s goals called off on phanton fouls, they were allowed to keep offside goals, etc. Again this time around,Brazil has benefitted from the officials, such as Adriano’s offside goal, and that 3rd goal against Ghana looked offside as well. FIFA will go all out to ensure that Brazil at least makes it to the final because Brazil is an overhyped ratings machine. As talented as Brazil is, it does not merit the hyperbolic-laced praised garnished upon it by fans, casual viewers, and “experts.”

Observer, I think your tinfoil hat is set too tight. Better loosen it a little.

Careful observers of the game know that it has changed substantially over the last 40 years. I have followed it since around 1958, when Brazil established itself definitively as a “definer” of how it ought to be played. Superb individual skills, give and go, anticipating the flow by the third or fourth player in the specific play underway. Since 1958– 12 complete World Cups –, Brazil has been involved in 7 finals — over 50%. No other nation even comes close. Defensively, no other side has yielded as few goals, so to talk about its defensive weaknesses maked no sense. The secret is an incredible production of talent — some 1600 Braziians play abroad — again no other side even comes close. But remember the drought between 1970 and 1994? 24 years of bad finishes. Perhaps the defensive schemes became more systematic and perfected, so Brazilian football also evolved eventually, and today it’s playing more defensively and at the same time being more opportunistic on the attack. When Brazil meets up with England, Italy, France, Argentina, it has to play excellent defense and let the offense come into play as the opposition permits it. The edge is the more competent attack, provided it doesn’t yield on defense. Frankly, what else is Mr Parreira to do?
Each game is different, and you do what the opposition allows you to do — only that. The trick is still to allow the opposition to do very little. Against Ghanna, a good skill team, it was team defense. Against a less skilled European side, it will mean more direct attacks on the ball carrier to force a poor pass and regain possession. It’s a tactic that has worked well in the past (Italy in 94, Germany in 2002). Against France, it will depend on their individual skill level.
Moreover, it’s nonsense to dwell on too much possession and lots of passes. It’s quite olright to make long passes to the wings if that’s what’s available, or to work from set plays if there are too many fouls being called. It’s still a game of opportunism and taking advntage of whatever the other team gives you to work with.

Sorry, my mistake. Since 1958 Brazil has participated in 6 finals out of 12. Exactly 50%. Not a bad record over 44 years of competitions.

This dilema is wrong. The critics and fans are not upset because we are lacking the “beautiful play”, its because we are not controlling the game as we should. Ghana owned the midfield, and created tons of oportunities. Thank god they are terrible strikers otherwise we would have lost that game. But i think in order to control the game we need fast players that move around quickly to find spaces between the defenders so the ball can be easily passed around.

I also dont think Ronaldinho is playing poorly, his role in the team is to pass the ball around and it has being hard to do that with such static players. The other problem is that we have four players that dont defend: Ronaldo, Adriano, Ronaldinho, and Kaka. Robinho tries to steal the ball from the oponents, just like Juninho and Ricardinho. But Ronaldinho and Kaka arent natural on that job, they have a more offensive nature.

I truly wished Robinho should start playing against France, but he will probably get in the game in the middle of the second half. And I cant take Cafu and Roberto Carlos anymore, they are starting to attack from time to time, but they cant return quickly to theur positions and someone has to cover them.

France has been highly vulnerable to speedy counter-attacks this entire Cup. No team does that better than Brazil. I think the only thing Brazil has to guard against is letting France bully them as they did Spain. Brazil has been notching wins for a long time now without winning the midfield battle, so I don’t think they should be overly worried about France in that respect. France will probably win that battle, but I think their slowness in responding to the quick counters will be France’s undoing.

i don’t caRE WHAT PEOPLE THINK ABOUT BRAZIL BUT I KNOW THAT THEY NO THAT BRAZIL RULES DEEEP DOWN IN THERE HEARTS !!!!!!!!!!(true fact has just been told!)

Henry – great post – I came into the soccer world in 1970. As an american 10 year old, avid sports fan, not knowing anything about the game, I watched the cup in Germany [we moved to Hamburg in 1970 living there until 1976]. I listened on the BBC, esp. Brazil – England, and watched on german TV. I saw the 74 cup in depth. During this time, I had become a great fan of football, a fan of Cruyff and the dutch [Ajax was my team] as well as Brossia Monchengladbach with a guy named Gunter Netzer. Brazil was my favorite, the dutch 2nd. Football was very different in the 70’s compared to today. I say this because when I left europe, my ability to follow football was hindered since coverage here in the states was poor. In 78 I did see the final but knew nothing of the details of the cup. In 82, 86 & 90 the games were on tv in spanish, but I could not understand. The thing that stands out to me with Brazil over those years was that the team would make a tragic defensive lapse and lose the game and get knocked out.
In 82 it was that bad pass in the second half that Rossi picked off and drilled in the upper corner of the net. The 90 game against Argentina was dominated by Brazil. Attack after attack, shot after shot turned back – then one break away by Argentina which they scored on and it was over – again a defensive lapse.
In 94, Brazil had Aldair who seemed to run people down, Dunga who could tackle and a good, confident keeper. Much different than before – no lapses on defense[save the Netherlands match] – and they won!! By the way, I was able to go to the semi and the final in Pasedena. They were not the most exciting games – but they won and I was happy. I bet a lot people on this board who love Brazil and/or are Brazilians have not had the chance to be in the stadium where the team won cup – I feel blessed to have been a witness for sure.
I think it is best that the team play smarter than its oppostion. Brazil would have been foolish to run all day with Ghana. It was smarter to let them win a few balls, let them expend energy in the middle of the pitch, and then jump on the mistakes that they were bound to make. The result is that Brazil live to play another day. I do think that defense wins championships – but offense sells tickets – just like US football. It’s frustating to play with stronger defense and not be so magical, but it is far more frustating to give it up like 1982.
Let me add to this idea of the beautiful game…The team everyone thinks about is the 1970 team. Correct me if I am wrong, but 1970 was the first time that the games were able to be shown live worldwide due to satellite tv broadcast – and in color!! This has to have had an effect on people who otherwise saw football in thier localized regions. People saw Brazil and saw joy, creatvity, freedom and maybe even sunshine – or the lack of bleakness. There a was a lot of bleakness in the world then. This color that people saw in Brazil has to have influended the mythology of this team, even the color of the uniform – and it has hung over Brazil ever since.
Maybe one of the reasons that that 1970 team was so good had to do with the fact that all those players played club ball in Brazil and even on the same club team(?). If nothing else, by playing club ball in Brazil, the same over riding style, aproach and mindset was practiced by everyone. They were free from euro/defensive tactics. Free from the bleakness of giving up a goal. Instead, if you played in Brazil, if someone scored, you just scored right back. People were expected to score! It was the norm.
Pele was watched every week in Brazil so that younger players like Jarzinho and Revelino (sp?) saw Pele as a leader, as a role model. When that team got together, Pele fed these guys the ball, Pele humbled himself in order to lift them up and thereby make the team better. He used his mind as well as talent. They still made mistakes, going down early 1-0 to uruguay in the semi, but they came back. Pele orchestrated it. People in the world did not watch games played in this style. The people fell in love with Pele and the team because of this joyous style. Since then all of us long for that type of manifestation again because it was so beautiful. The beauty was in the unity – which is sorely lacking today. Actually, the conferderation team of last year looked like that 1970 team a little – they beat Germany and Argentina and looked good doing it!! But as football has changed and players started playing in Europe, the unity of style was broken up. The national team is really an all-star team. In order to win, the biggest problem is actually finding players who can humble themselves and take on a role. Lucia learned his defemsive mind set playing in Germany where defense is a virtue. Rivaldo is not hear, nor is Dennilson – who I liked in 1998 and 2002.
I think it is a far better feeling to have the team win than to have beautiful football and a loss. It is a greater statement to actually create unity today because of the way the game is – it is a greater achievement to have a group think if you will today. The reward for that will be another cup. If this team has a defensive lapse now like in the Japanesse game it could be the end. I say experienced defense is key to winnig the next match against France – Henry can be a horse. But I think they need creativity in the mid field & possession, movement up front with Robinho (sp?) which could give us a manifestation of the beautiful. Every goal that was scored against Japan was started with a pass into space by Ronalddinho – like Pele in 1970. In this game, Brazil need a set peice goal of some kind, a goal by Ronaldinho and another one by Ronaldo – I hope he can break off a run of some kind and just burry the ball!!!
Hope this all makes sense…

Brazilz gonna WINNNNNNNNN baddly
go ronaldinho (i cant spell his name prop.) and go ronaldo !!!!
GOOOOOOOOOOO BRAZIL !!!!!!

Brazil played smart against Ghana and that is what won the day for them.

GAME 1
In the Italian game, the Azzuri allowed the Blackstars to play all the football n punished them on the counter utilising long ball thru Pirlo. They knew the couldn’t compete with the Ghanaian midfield so the exploited our lateral defense weaknesses.
The end result? Italy 2 – Ghana 0

GAME 2
The Czech were deceived into thinking their midfielders are the best in the world an decided to match the Ghanaian engine room. They were dead-wrong! They were beaten for pace, tenacity and skill by Essien, Appiah Muntari, Eric Addo, Otto Addo and Derick Boateng.
End result? Ghana 2 – Czech 0

GAME 3
Some say they Ghanaian didn’t play like they did in their first 2 games – TRUE. The African naivity were put to rest. Knowing the US were quick on the wings and quite skillful (in Donovan n Beasley)were sat back, keep their lateral defense weak-spots well-protected n hit Arena’s men hard in the face on the counter – using a lot of long balls. Tactically, Doya won the day.
End Result? Ghana 2 – USA 1

GAME 4
Simple story. Brazil know a battle for the midfield with even an Essien-deficient Blackstars midfield is suicidal so Brazil goes for the tactical game knowing very well the like of Kaka n Ronaldinho can deliver accurate long-range passes and the like of Ronaldo n Adriano will come up with a good conversion rate. So the Blackstars won the beautiful game but their impotent strikers made nothing of it. Brazil played a disciplined game an dimmed my Blackstars.
End Result? Brazil 3 – Ghana 0

Parreira took note of the Blackstars performances and came up with the perfect plan to gain qualification. He deserves credit.
Besides, is it not about winning – GOALS COUNT! Not Possesion!

Well, well…
I must be the only one (and my country DOESN’T play in this WC) who thinks that Brazil comes to the field with a different aura (maybe flair is another word for that).

They know they are the best – until now though in theory -, they feel it, show it, and afterall they play well! They come out, do as much as it is necessary to win, and that’s all. After all, isn’t it the Brazilian mentality, ‘let them score as much as they want, we can make more goals’???

For the records: Argentina might win this one -if they pass over Germany…

BRAZIL TEAM IS VERY GOOD AND HONOUR ABLE AND GOOD PLAYERS AND WELL

love is life soccer is my whife brazil is my heart hahahaha

Dan, you really are a football fan! Your theory makes sense, but I don’t know if to play out of Brazil is a negative aspect. In 2002 we had many players from Europe but Denilson and Ronaldo still could fire up the other teams. We could feel the joy on the pitch. Defense was good too, we conceded only 4 goals. Now it always seems that the breaks are on all the time. Robinho will fire up the team, if he gets the chance, with Juninho sending Ronaldinho up front.

Talz, you spelled correctly Ronaldinho.

Brazil has played some very boring football and has also cheated along the way.

I ude to be a big follower and supporter of Brazilian Football, but after seeing brazil play…I have been bored and amazed by the 3 Offsides goal that have been counted in favor of Brazil.

I hope France beats Brazil, because Brazil clearly has so far only played with Weak teams and has reach the top 8 teams by winning a easy group and a easy match 16 game.

I’m sorry Brazil….but you are not favorites any longer.

Brazi will lose to Germany/or Argentina in the Finals….

I could not be more happy that our team is not as favorite as before!!! Thank you Marcus!!! Spread the word to your Argentine friends!!!

By the way, only Adriano’s goal was offside but it would not change the outcome of the match. You’re just a bad loser.

I hope you can explain the real reasons behind your anger towards Brazil.

We all get goals like that some time or another. Look no further than our clash with Mexico where Crespo was able to sneak in and cause an own goal by an outmaneuvered Borgetti.

Adriano’s was terribly handled, hitting his thigh and barely making it in.

Ours wasn’t offside or anything but still, a ridiculously ugly goal.

Marcus, Brasil has only played weak teams? Were Croatia and Ghana “weak?” Croatia placed 3rd in ‘98. You have a chip on your shoulder and I’m sure you’ll find some other lame excuse to dismiss Brasil if it gets to the finals – which even you seem confident about.

Henry, I agree with you -each game is different and requires different approaches, styles, and tactics. People expect the same consistent style of play and are disappointed when they don’t get it. I liked your theory on the evolution of Brasil’s defense. This World Cup, Brasil has shown it is versatile and can adapt to different opponents with confidence.

Arjuno, if you think Croatia and Ghana are strong teams you need to get your head examined.

Croatia was unable to get a win against the powerhouses Australia and Japan.

Ghana was the typical African side. Fast, electric, yet absolutely unable to finish their plays.

I’m not just saying it’s Brazil who haven’t faced a strong side as of yet, but also Germany, Italy, Ukraine, and England.

This will be the first test for all of those teams except Italy, who have it easy with the Ukraine draw.

Ghana is a weak team. They used a phantom penalty to beat the rigid US, and a man advantage to ice off the Czech. Brazil only did to them what Italy also did.

This will be Brazil’s first test.

France played against easier teams than Brazil did.

Spain is just like Ghana. France is good, but doesnt mean they already won against Brazil.

Only Japan scored 1 goal against Brazil, does the other teams can say the same?

Also have the best attack form this WC. The other can´t same the same also.

This game will be the most balanced in the quarter finals, the other games is already predicted, Argentina, Italy and Portugal wins.

Wow, not sure at all for Argentina (against Germany playing at home) and Portugal (that will miss two important players in defense.)

And Brazil remains huge favourite against France.

What about the impact of the potential loss of Kaka’ in the midfield for the offense? He’s been creating a lot of the opportunities for goals in the previous matches, and I can’t think of a less selfish player who really seems to care about the welfare of the team over his own ambition. It’d be pretty unfortunate if he’s not able to play at least part of the time on Saturday.

Euler,
I really like your like your reply to Marcus:) Right on target. I wish he would explain this anger towards Brazil

Also, to Dan and Henry, great post!

When you have players who can combine speed and finishing skills, you’ve got a lethal offense. That’s Brazil’s advantage. Yes, they are a bit suspect on defense, and if France plays offense as strongly as they did in the 2nd half against Spain, it’ll be a good match. I just think it comes down to whether France can lumber back quickly enough on the inevitable counter-attacks Brazil will mount. I’m betting they can’t, at least not often enough to prevent scores. It does not help France that Barthez is in goal. In my opinion, he’s slow and makes bad decisions about coming off his line too often.

Euler my firned … so what happened to rohnaldhino .. like i said before the WC he has his head up his ass and wants to run the show and because of that will have a terible tournaent … also brazil scored 2 golas that were offside and you brazil were lucky dida made some miricla saves and that ghana were unlucky in front of gaol .. that being said brazil will not win the WC .. a full strength Portugal will beat brazil

Marco, your Argentine/Italian voodoo won’t work here. He is adapting to Parreira’s bad strategy, but even without playing great he is helping Brazil to win all the matches.

Only Adriano’s goal was offside and it a very close call. Anyway we can’t answer to the referees mistakes. Go to the refs blog to complain.

And Saint Dida is there exactly to do what he is doing, keeping the ball out! And this is how we’re going to reach the final. Is your team better than Brazil? Are you sure?

France is next! Say goodbye Zidane!!!

As a fan I’d like to see more of the “beautiful” game from Brasil. But from the Brasil team perspective they need to win. No one will remember how they played only that they won or lost.

Having said that I think Brasil will now start to face real opponents. France and Portugal or England are no Croatia or Ghana. Brasil is weak on defense. They don’t go after the ball and tackle the ball handler immediately but give lot of space. They provide lot of holes in the center for fast players to move. Since the entire backfield moves forward they are very vulnerable to counter-attack. Also since Brasil players are very egotistical and selfish they don’t make the extra pass to an open player in front of the goal and show off too much missing the chance.

Although I would love to see Brasil in the final playing against Argentina, the reality is that there is a very high probability they will lose against France which played a very inspired game against Spain. The French defense was solid against the short pass game and they they provide no space as they tackle the ball handler quickly not allowing much movement. Brasil will have the best chance against England. Portugal will be difficult too.

I think France will beat Brasil this time. Psychologically I think Brasil is very nervous about France as memories of 98 will come back.

Doesn’t matter who wins, Argentina will OWN both countries! The Brazilians will warm up the seats on the plane ride back to to south america for Argentina

it will be hard seeing any beautiful game with roberto carlos and cafú on the field. deus do céu, how can parreira have the guts to put roberto carlos on the team after his two last performances.

and he’s so effing arrogant. his blasé posture during the bra x japan game, show the man he is.

before he had velocity and a strong kick. now he has nothing. he was never that great anyway.

Argentina Fan: Maradona called, said you must get back to drug rehab with him before you begin getting delusional again.

Oh wait, you already started. Better be quick then.

Berny,

I never said Ghana and Croatia were strong, I just said they weren’t weak. Is Group C any better? Argentina comes out on top of Serb/Mont., Ivory Coast, and Netherlands? Big deal.And Group G? France, Switzerland, Togo and S. Korea? The point is Brasil has had it no easier or tougher than anybody else. Ghana was not the typical African side, it was the best African side. Saying France will be a real test now, in the quarterfinals, is pointing out the obvious. Brasil is still the favorite for the match.

Euler, Zé, what is the word on Kaka? If he plays will we still see Juninho start? I am not so worried for Emerson’s position as Gilberto Silva will be almost equal replacement (may be better even?). I hope somehow there is a place for Juninho in the midfield along with Kaka, Ronaldinho. But can’t leave out Ze Roberto. (Even Ricardinho looked good, but does not mean much at so late a stage in the Ghana game.) I am pretty confident that Perriera will start Robinho for Adriano. If Robinho is not ready for 90 min we should see Juninho with Ronaldinho pushed up. Perriera has to be absolutely insane to keep Adriano in the starting eleven!!! Seriously weakens the defence! I do not think he will tamper with Carlos and Cafu even though I sincerely hope he gives Cicinho and Gilberto more chance. Carlos was not that good at defence, horrible in attack and a waster in free-kicks. Is it at all possible to play Ze Roberto in his place?

I am glad that Brasil is winning even if at 60% effort. Yes, I would like more ball control to reduce chances from opposition, but I have seen beautiful goals and some tricks. Hope I see a goal from direct freekick from Juninho and some Ronaldinho magic. Happy as long as Brasil wins. France won last 2 times, so hope fortune favors Brasil this time.

Sourav: about Kaká, we will know tomorrow – both he and Emerson are recovering from their slight injuries and Parreira (et al) will only decide their fate after tomorrow’s training session, after they see how well they do and if they feel any pain. Word is that they’re “70% recovered”.

With Kaká out, the press says the most probable replacement is Juninho, but I don’t think Parreira will do that, specially against France. He would probably put Ricardinho on his place — he liked the way the team played with him against Ghana, and putting another player with offensive abilities would probably stack the attacking field too much while leaving midfield and defense uncovered. Putting Ricardinho on and moving Ronaldinho a bit to the front sounds like a good alternative.

I, for one, would love to see Juninho playing however.

Oh, and I’m aligning with you on the Adriano position. Having both him and Ronaldo upfront is not working. I was one of the critics of Ronaldo, but right now I’m seeing the problem is not with either of them, but the fact that they both stand still too much while waiting for passes close to the goal. That’s why I think one of them has to be out, and someone with speed and skills has to replace him and do the connection – Robinho, that is.

Adriano created a sort of a ruckus as of lately – he’s refusing to talk to brazilian press (giving interviews to foreign press only) and also criticizing brazilian press everytime someone asks him something. He says the local press has been trying to take him out of the team for over an year now and he’s tired of that.

I think it’s a bit odd, since the press was much, MUCH harsher with Ronaldo, but whatever.. it must be pretty hard for players to get used to the pressure.

We need ROBINHO up on the front. It´s impossible to go on with the “twin towers”, which clearly prevents the midfielders ronaldinho and kaká from doing their jobs properly. Result: ronaldinho missed TONS of passes because no one would show up!!!

Even with this little problems, I think our team is by far the best in this competition and i don´t agree with people that says that we´re only having good results ´cause we haven´t played against good teams yet. FOR CHRIST´S SAKE!!

1-Germany faced COSTA RICA, POLAND, ECUADOR AND SWEDEN(which tied with TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO!!!!!!!!!!!!!) WoW, really scary!!!!!!!

2-Argentina did a good job against servia, but had a hard time againts IVORY COAST, tied HOLLAND(weak this year) and went to extra time versus MEXICO!!!!!

3-Italy tied USA and had to have a little help to beat AUSTRALIA!!! No need to say more…

4- England… No comments…

5- France: tied swiss team and SOUTH KOREA(!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

My god! Now, Brazil won all the 4 games, has the best attack (10 goals), the best defense (1 goal) and committed less faults than any other team!!!

Come on!!! You´re all jealous, and that´s really pathetic…

* * * * * * HEXACAMPEAO

actually, i’m a rabid brazil fan. and i remember the 1986 and 1998 losses to france with pain!!!maybe that’s why i can never support france.

however i am compelled to RESPECT france after that spain game. WOW! brazil MUST raise their game against france as france did against spain.

i will be so happy for brazil to win, especially CONVINCINGLY. it will prove a lot of things. For ronaldinho’s sake, he must use this match to prove that he is the successor to zidane and even better.

I am conviced that ronaldinho is best in a supporting strike position as in barcelona partly because he is much more effective at short passing than at long passing which is more of a zidane specialty. Apart from perhaps stagefright and wanting to play for the team/to instructions- i think playing deep has curtailed ronaldinho. Parriera should let his defensive midfielders or juninho(less creative but an asset for shots and freekicks) do their job.

brazil will definitely need the full creative attacking magic of kaka and ronaldinho to hurt france who have arguably the best defensive core so far- (thuram gallas makelele vierra)though thankfully barthez is in goal, which creates possibilities. if brazil cannot keep these guys busy, they will support the rejuvenated french attack and put too much pressure on brazils so far average defence with two aged fullbacks and 1998 may repeat itself.

i believe that fred should possibly start- his scoring within minutes of entry against Japan says a lot.

i will be devastated if france score first though.

anyhow, my prayers are with brazil. cheers!!

Ze: I noticed you are now posting in America. I bet you anticipated Brazil getting their asses whooped so you decided to jump ship and go to a soccer neutral country so nobody would rub it in your face.

Argentina Fan: yeah, I’m here to ask Bush to bomb the hell out of Buenos Aires. Since we can never match them in football, we might as well get rid of them while we have time.

I kid, though. I’m still in Brazil, inside my very same house in São Paulo. I don’t know what it shows to you as my flag (it shows nothing to me on this moment), but to me it shows YOU as having the USA flag, so I could say the same about you.

EagleEye,

I agree with you a 100% percent. You are hilarious !!!:) Even though Brazil is not playing up to its potential, the other contenders have not overwhelmingly impressive either. The only way Brazil could lose is by defeating themselves, mental lapses on defense, lack of concentration, improper exectuion. Even though I don’t agree with Pareira’s lineup, I trust he’s the most qualified man to make the call now.

I agree that Brasil is not playing its full potential, but anyway, we will be very happy to retire Zidane. Fair enough.

I use to really enjoy watching Brazil play in the past. In the days of Falcao, Zico and Socrates right up to the days of Romario. Somehow I no longer enjoy watching this team and I can’t put my finger on it. Something is wrong with these players, they just rub me the wrong way. Any thoughts on this?

Blacksnake.com

Lighten up, Ze’. Argentina played a good game against Germany, and PKs are an awful way to be eliminated from any WC match. ArgentinaFan’s irritating comments shouldn’t make you go sour on a good effort by the Albiceleste.
On another note, is it for certain that Gilberto and Juninho are playing tomorrow?

Argentina: Joga Bonito
Brazil: Joga Vomito

look at it this way .. italy at there best is better than brazil at there best .. italys defence is the best in the world and so far no one has scored past italy (excpet for the meselves – own goal haha) And italy has the best striker (if not the best player in the world) Luca toni .. although been very unlcuky not to have scored 4 goals by now already .. if he starts scoring brazuil better watch out coz the cup will once again go home to italy

Dont worry guys in final match you will be play with Ukraine

82
Italy

78 86
Argentina Argentina

74 90
Germany Germany

70 94
Brazil Brazil

66 98
Host Host

62 02
Brazil Brazil

58 06
Brazil Brazil!

The WC should just be scraped and every 4 years, the cup can be given to Brazil without involving other countries who just come in to make the numbers. FIFA already want Brazil to win but every once in a while some team like Germany, France or Argentina spoil their plans. I have lost interest in the WC. the only game I’ll be watching is Ukraine Vs Italy coz Ukraine are the only underdogs left. Though I know the referee will make sure that Italy goes through to the Semi finals at all costs. The World Cup has lost Meaning. Simply hand the Cup to Brazil every 4 years…

sigh. brazil vs argentina in the finals, brazil for cup … again. I predicted this before the WC started so yeah just give me all the credit when it happens. oh yeah this blog above me… Ukraine… ARE YOU KIDDING ME. lol they’re horrible, worst team in the final 8. I guess they can beat switzerland, but they’re useless too. The only question that remains is: how many will Ronaldo score in all his WCs before he retires… his record will be tough to pass

Observer: Start using your brain and stop being indenial, BRAZIL will always be a team to beat in any tournament even without the players based in Europe and somewhere in that little pea brain of yours you know that is true!!

the coach had better change the lineup bring in robinho for adriano, robinho breathes life into the attack.also use juninho in midfield , let kaka and ronaldinho play behind the two strikers. brazil should cut off passing lanes from france.brazil should also try shots. barthez weak link is low fast shots.tip brazil to wwin 2-1

Eagle Eye…you rule!!!!

Argentina Fan: looks like Argentina’s “Joga Bonito” doesn’t apply to penalty kicking or actually winning against Germany then.

The point I made earlier about Argentina has bben proven today. Agaginst a weaker team (Serbia&M) they did well, however as the opponents got better their true colors showed. They are a weak, overhyped team with good players!

Argentina Fan | June 30th, 2006 at 9:11 am

Argentina: Perde Bonito

I knew Argentina would lose and they did; they can talk about it trying to justify themselves (as they usualy do) but fact remains the same – against the stronger teams they proved to be unsuccessful!
Now, there are lot of blogs trying to find conspiracies, literally, everywhere and in everything. I don’t believe in that; nor do I believe in expression “ball is round.”
As Georgian I’m stating GO BRASIL, Brasill will win and all the opponents can do is make loud speaches and justify themselves in meaningless words.

Let’s to be honest….every team fears Brazil…and more…they are jealous because we’re the best…but i don’t think all this favoritism is doing good for our players…there is a lot of pression on them…not just from the whole world, most of the pression is coming from our own country…All Brazilians wants to be champion for the sixth time…and i think that the whole world is cheering to Brazil get off, and go back to home.
About the fact that FIFA doesn’t want Brazil to win again, that they want Germany to win the WC, it do make sense…football will become boring if only Brazil win…But personally (and i think “every” Brazilian are thinking that way)…I don’t give a shit…Playing bad or well we want to be champions again..doesn’t matter the results…of course it would be much more better if our Seleção crashed every team that stands in our way with a large advantage, showing our old and briliant football…anyway, in my point of view Brazil is the favorite this WC despite all “zica”…

Go and get our sixth star Selecção!!!

****/*
“Verás que um filho teu não foge à luta, nem teme quem te adora a própria morte, terra adorada, entre outras mil és tu Brasil ó patria amada, dos filhos deste solo és mãe gentil, pátria amada Brasil”

I just read France is as good as Brazil,

According to an interviwe in Eurosport Fred said most player agree that playing France was going to be hard and they respected that formation, most players also said this was the team they really wanted to face in the final according to them still one of the toughest opponent to play.

I respect both teams and feel they are the best in the tournement it’s a 50% players play each other all the time in the sames leagues or in european championships, both

France is the Brazil of Europe both countries really like each other as do the players actually they call each other on a day to day Malouda and chriss are freinds, it is up the people who are against each other these players who respect each other it will be a clean, nice game, my only problem is that the referee is Spanish not very fair after France beating Spain would have prefered to see a ref from another nation

Below are last 29 years of France, brazil

1977 in Brasil 2-2
1986 WC Mexico France won in penalties

1992 in Paris brasil won 1-0
1998 wc France won 3-0
2004 Confederation Cup France won 2-1

don’t remember the year 0-0

A little edge to France means nothing tomorow both power houses with good football to show

I beg to differ with a lot of people who have posted comments on this website. I think that Parreira is a master strategist who has proved his abilities in the 1994 when Brazil were not one of the favourites but ended up winning with a not overtly brilliant team. We should ask ourselves why is Parreira asking Ronaldinho to play in a position/style that he is obviously not comfortable in while knowing full well what he is capable of and his achievements in the recently concluded league season at club level. If we as armchair spectators can see how badly it is affecting Ronaldinho’s game, don’t any of you think that Parreira, spending every waking moment focusing on the team and the tournament and sitting literally on the field can see this and more. I believe that it is all a ploy and Ronaldinho is making the supreme sacrifice for his country by playing along. Come a crunch match and he will be allowed the freedom he needs to go forward and play his game and he will put his unique stamp on this world cup.

So Anatoliy, I think you mean Brazil will play Ukraine in 2010 too? Or maybe 2016 since it will be knocked out by Ghana in 2010.

My god, it´s amazing what i´ve been reading about the brazilian team on the other countries blogs…

1-It´s really funny to see the FRENCH criticising our team… and specially our defense. After all, it must have been our defense who allowed TOGO and SOUTH KOREA to score against us… WONDERFUL, MARVELOUS defense!!!!

2-People are criticising our gameplay against ghana. Let´s just wonder here: the score was 3-0 BRAZIL, and there were 2 players injured… Now imagine if BRAZIL went full throttle, and the final score was 8-0 (which, for who watched the game, was REALLY possible), HOW MANY PLAYERS WOULD GET INJURED AFTER THE GAME? They would beat them all the way! No need for that, right?

3-GERMANY showed us today it hasn´t all that POWER everyone thought they had… Argentina simply ruled the game. And if COSTA RICA can score TWICE against them, you wonder BRAZIL (RONALDO, ROBINHO, R. GAUCHO, KAKA)!!!!!

No offense, but the brazilian team is very superior to the others, even though this doesn´t mean 100% we´ll win. But I do believe it.

Farewell, Argentina

* * * * * * HEXACAMPEAO

Dear Ze, dear euler, Dear brasilians,
now I can say this: I hope that you win the WC and you take it back to south america. I dreamt of a brazil-argentina final, but, then again, it didn’t work. i don’t blame the referee, the match was there, and instead of going and grabbing it from the throath we let germany grow and get back in the game. the rest is history.
So from now own, I’m seeing the matches until the final with the good brazilians friends I have in this city, and I hope that you’ll win.
greetings

EagleEye, I think much of it is due to the fact that Brazil was a big “target” before the WC, specially because its large favoritism. Of course, the people attacking it right now are the same people who fall for hype (or people who start to hate a team because of hype), so they’re not worthy paying attention.

Other teams, such as France, came from ridiculous performances and won when they usually wouldn’t so it was probably what has set their critics on fire. Brazil only won “because it had the moral obligation to do so”, so all results (even victories) are letdowns. This should change from now on, I hope.

Keyser, thanks! Yeah, I also wanted to see Brazil vs Argentina, I’ve wanted that for decades, but I guess I’ll have to wait a few more years. Argentina was unlucky with their replacements (having to replace the keeper specially). Better luck for them next time.

Totally agree, zé.

I was also looking for an argentina-brazil final, but unfortunately, it won´t be this time. I´m pretty sure I wouldn´t be able to see the end of the game, for I would die from a HEARTATTACK during the match.

It looks like we´ll have what I suspected even before the cup start(the OBVIOUS):

BRAZILxGERMANY

We´ll win.

* * * * * * HEXACAMPEAO

Quote EagleEye : Totally agree, zé.

I was also looking for an argentina-brazil final, but unfortunately, it won´t be this time. I´m pretty sure I wouldn´t be able to see the end of the game, for I would die from a HEARTATTACK during the match.

It looks like we´ll have what I suspected even before the cup start(the OBVIOUS):

BRAZILxGERMANY

We´ll win. (Quote end)

Ballack will be playing on the final this time and no Kahn this time… so…

the final
GERMANY 3 – BRAZIL 0

Sorry, IronMaiden, its ITALY VS BRAZIL. If the germans had the luck against argentina, then Italy will surely break all german fans this time. I see a bloody streets after the German-Italy match! lot of germans will be out on the streets looking for a fight.

hey hohw come when i leave a comment, the flag doesn’t appear?? sum 1 tell me.

what flag? cant u see the flag? right beside the word Posted from?

Germany VS Italy is like the Spain VS France. Inexperience VS the Experience Team. Young VS oldies playass. Italy will surely humiliate the Germans. they will surely teach the young ones when playing great teams.

No I’m not a Brazilian, (I’m from T&T) but have been a life-long supporter of Brazil. I never wavered in support of Ronaldo, and thought that it was a good move to try and play him into some semblance of match fitness. That however, is about the only thing that Parreira has done right in my opinion.

Please don’t get tetchy when anyone outside of Brazil suggests that this team is not firing the way that virutally everyone (except the insanely jealous) knows that they can. Yes the stas are favourable, but you don’t win matches on stats alone.

I’m a genuine fan of Brazil, and I DON’T want a repeat of the 1998 nightmare, but with your current tactics, that’s exactly what we might get.

I love Brazil when they are playing like Brazil rather than some pseudo-European team. Why is anyone outside of Brazil, supposed to care while Adriano awkwardly and selfishly lumbers around the pitch, waiting for service like he’s Ruud Van Nistlerooy? Who can take pleasure in watching Parreira put Dinho on a leash, play him in the wrong position and completely stifling his flair, creativity, attacking instinct and joy in the game?

Who (other than anti-Brazilians) could delight in the way that Kaka is being misused in the team?

Injury aside, why is Robinho sitting on the bench and what does Parreira have against him?

What is Roberto Carlos doing?

And what’s with all the long passes up the pitch ala England?

There is nothing more maddening than to watch a talented team go down because of poor coaching and a lack of nerve.

And after seeing the team who has consistently played some the best football this tournament (yes, that would be Argentina) go down because of a moment of coaching insanity and a loss of nerve – I think Brazil would be wise to pay attention to this issue.

In a critical instance, Peckerman lost faith in his own team and inexplicably tried to get them to play as if they were Italy with this ‘1-0′ ‘defend to the death’ nonsense, nevermind that they had gotten as far as they had by playing good, freeflowing, open, attacking football. But no. And now there is no possibility of a South American final…

It’s time for Brazil to retire the ghosts of 1982, and stop with the self-flagellation. It is okay (indeed necessary) for Brazil to play like Brazil. It’s not an either/or situtation and it is a false dilemma. It’s possible to balance innate flair with pragmatic play – remember, you did it before in 2002.

It’s not just the lacklustre play at this WC that is worrying, but even worse Brazil sometimes loks like a higher quality England,,,

As others have stated, Brazil has the talent to do BOTH – to play well, to play with control and to win; but you’re not going to win this WC playing on European territory, against European teams by imitating said teams.

By trying to be something you’re not (i.e. dull, uncreative and uptight)you’re jeopardising yourselves.

Come on Brazil – wake up. Rebel against Parreira if necessary. I don’t know what’s going to happen, but if France (who is no Ghana) picks up where it left off against Spain, then you are going to have to step it up.

Come on Brazil!

Kelly, i don’t agree, i want to see some Jinga, i need some lovely group goals u know.
if u can’t expect that from brazil… who else?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwGBSSgr4XA

My problem with what all that’s being said is not so much about the game being “beautiful”. Of course it helps to be able to see it in a world cup especially from a team which u know has what it takes.

The bottom line is Brazil is not playing at all…i think a lot of its win come from the fact that they were playing team that lacked their experience and their individual skills ( had Brazil played the Netherlands or Spain or Argentina)…they would have bombed…

I think the WHOLE team is not playing together….they r playing as individuals trying to score ( Kafu doesn’t pass the ball to ronaldhino, Adriano doesn’t pass the ball to ronaldo..Roberto Carlos just shoots balls out of the blue for no reason and most of the times not even near the net)…

It’s as if there s no spunk to the team no REAL desire or strive to win…they r just rolling with the punches…the only people actually trying anything r the young ones who have everything to prove like Robhino, Cicinho, Junhino, Gilberto who actually bring life to the team which seems desperatly asleep.

Preps tough for Ronaldhino becoz even if he’s not playin in the position where he could have really shown his talent, he runs the brazilian attack (the little they have so far) all the balls go trough him , he orchestrates the game and it’s nice to see he’s motivated altough in the last game against ghana he didnt seem as happy to play as the previous games…i think he s fed up with the individual play when he’s busting his balls to create opportunities for others..

I just hope they win over France tomorow…becoz i wouldnt want a repeat of 1998 (1,2,3…..0000000)

A couple good links here recapping the 1998 World Cup final…

http://www.greatsportsnews.com/brazil.php

natalia, tristan,

It seems the flag is detected client-side (I’m not sure), so sometimes it will not show up or sometimes it will show up differently for each person that is viewing a given post. Adding to it the fact that it gets it wrong a few times (showing the USA flag more than it should for example), it means the flags aren’t very accurate.

I think Brazil has a chance to win, but I do agree with Pat. It’s like they’re not playing at all. I mean if you’ve seen the game against Japan. If You’ve seen how those young players liki Cicinho have played. It’s like they have the winning spirit and that’s what I think players like Cafu need. However I think there’s a great chance we might be seeing that in this match against France. In my opinion this is the first team Brazil has to watch out for seeing that the previous teams have been either weak or unexperienced comparing to them.
I think they know that they’ve got to play with allot more team spirit to win this. This is gonna be tough and they know it! I think they’re really gonna step up the game. At least they have to.

Aren’t you guys nervous though. I’m thinking about not watching the game and if they win then I’ll watch the reruns

good luck brazil!

Well, I’m surprised. Argentina out, England out — and nothing really to do with referees in one case, and — I regret — a rather capricious call on Rooney — certainly didn’t deserve to be sent out. I liked this very competent English side, and they took the game to the end, which was the right strategy when you’re a man short and the other team has decent skills.
If there was a problem with Argentina was the refusal to send one more man into the middle to complete the short game. They never broke through. They were overly concerned with the German counterattacks, so there never was enough threat. Now, the Greman team is not particularly skilled, so you can safely give them more in exchange for more offense.
Brazil and France? Are the Brazilians willing to run and disrupt the French flow? It’s the key. Either no balls get to Zidane or he has to play too far back. If Brazil can go up a goal or two, the game will open up to Brazil’s advantage. As to who is scheduled to start, it makes little difference.

England out…No big surprise. They were stale on offense and lacked punch in their attack. To make things worse, they played a man down. Now, how could a player afford to step on another player’s ball without getting thrown out. Talk of irresponsibility. When you play at this level, you’ve got to maintain your poise throughout the game. It’s a shame to let your team mates down.

What will it take to make penalties? 1 out of 4 tries…Come on boys. I’m sick already. Got to fill my glass and soak in France’s victory against Brazil.

I pet you American Countries will never win that world cup when ever it is held in any of those Europe countries.

Never! But i told you, If the world Cup make a mistake by going to one of the African countries, it will be there forever.

I hear everybody complaining of the poor performance by top players and teams just playing “crisis management instead of positive attacking football.” However, please keep things in perspective and realize the intensity and brutal toll the sport has on these athletes. The World Cup is undoubtadly football’s greatest spectacle. It’s also a monthlong grind, and the fatigue starts to sink in.

Games every few days, many playing under a hot, muggy sun. Travel across a country that’s almost as big as California. Pressure that grows with every game. And that’s on top of the nine months – or more – that many players just spent with the top and very demanding clubs accross Europe.

“The World Cup is a special test,” said Portugal goalkeeper Ricardo Pereira.”No matter how hard you try, you can’t completely overcome that tiredness.”

Or the injuries. Or the mental exhaustion.

Some teams manage better than others. Look at Germany, Italy, France and Portugal. They all have outstandin players but they definately do not look like it. But, they managed to outlast the other 28 teams, and it’s not only because of skill, timing and luck.

Italy is probably the strongest team mentally, able to ignore distractions from a corruption scandal that is rocking the domestic league. Despite several grueling games, Portugal has managed to remain in the tournment. France saved its energy and now looks fresher now than a month ago. And Germany is among the fittest teams after coach Juergen Klinsmann overhauled its training program.

“Physical condition is very important, because in soccer these days, 95 percent of the time the team that runs more wins,” Italy defender Gianluca Zambrotta said. “Compared to the past, soccer is much more athletic and the pace is much faster.”

When the tournament began in 1930, there were only 13 teams and it lasted two weeks. Now 32 teams play 64 games over four weeks, and qualifying begins two years out.

So give them a break and enjoy the teams from a perpective that the best crisis management team will win and not necessarily the team with the most lightning strike attack with precission pin point accuracy.

parre……….rror must go go never to coach brazil again. I mean even my own grandmother as a coach can win the World cup with BRAZIL.!

the joga bonito ads are quite entertaining.hehe.i say out with parreira.(too bad big phil decided to stay with portugal.bring on wanderley then)i really hope the seleçao can bounce back.i still have faith in the canarinho shirt.

i give props to brazil i love them im a 1 croatian fan but love brazil great performance in wc 06 but i was aliitle dissapointed with croatia vs japan they should have won that game easily and alittle disappointed with ronaldinho because he is a great player but did not really play well in wc 06 but exellent performance by brazil