Sign in

Brazil feel they won't win World Cup

Few people are betting against them, but Brazilians don't find pictures rosy.

Updated on: May 9, 2006, 10:56:00 IST
None | By , Sao Paulo, Brazil
Share
Share via
  • facebook
  • twitter
  • linkedin
  • whatsapp
Copy link
  • copy link

Very few people are betting against Brazil at the World Cup.

HT Image
HT Image

Brazil has many of the best players in the world, a record five World Cup titles, and one of the greatest traditions in soccer. The national team has won two of the last three titles and is coming off a successful season last year.

There's no denying Brazil is heavily favoured to win the tournament in Germany. The Brazilians admit that - as do most of their opponents!

The Brazilians, however, will be the first to point out that things won't be as easy as they look.

"It's true that we have great chances to win the World Cup," Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira said recently. "But that doesn't mean it's a done deal, we still need to play the matches and win them. And we know that's not going to be easy. All teams will be trying their best to beat the defending champions." Brazil is a stronger favourite than ever as the World Cup approaches.

In addition to comfortably leading FIFA's world rankings since 2002, Brazil won the 2004 Copa America and last year's Confederations Cup. It also finished first in the South American World Cup qualifying group, ahead of rival Argentina.

The team will be led by two-time FIFA player of the year Ronaldinho, and he will be supported by all-stars including Kaka, Ronaldo, Adriano, Cafu, Robinho and Roberto Carlos. "We have a very strong team, very technical and experienced," Ronaldo said.

Check India news real-time updates, latest news on Hindustan Times and more across India.