The King’s Opinion

Here in Brazil Pele is always called “Rei Pelé” (King Pele). And I was reading his interview at some sport site and guess what team he thinks is the favourite? The same that Carlos Bilardo’s. Brazil. Bilardo is a former Argentinean coach, so he also must know what he is saying.

This favouritism is getting on my nerves! I wasn’t that disturbed before, because when you read from your own press and your people is one thing, but when you start to find people from all over the world pointing your team as the favourite, that’s another thing. Pele said that Brazil has two teams, because of the number of talented players we’re sending. I don’t doubt that. But to have this kind of expectations is a little too much!!! It can be measured in the betting sites.

I know that Australia’s Dutch coach Guus Hiddink really wants a revenge from that 1998 game, but he also admitted that Brazil has more firepower. French Michel Platini also said that the Selection are outstanding favourites. Coming from such legend it is a great honour and, at the same time, more pressure to our players. Best for last: German legend Franz Beckenbauer said we have a “galaxy of stars” and that we are favourites to him too, and he is German! I know Brazil is amongst the favourites in every World Cup, but this year is a little too much for Brazilian’s taste. Expectations are very high, so if we fall… that’s gonna hurt.