This is no longer the Brazil team of improvisational samba-style performances, flamboyant dribbling displays, or relentless attacking tempos. Instead, fans are witnessing a Brazil that plays at a slower but more solid pace, with a clear mind in defense and a selective approach to attack.
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| Forward Vinicius (number 7) celebrates his equalizer goal, making the score 1-1 for Brazil against Morocco. Photo: AP |
For many years, Brazil has been considered the elite representative of attacking football. They possess artists on the pitch, players capable of making a difference from individual moments. However, modern World Cup history shows that glamour doesn't always lead to glory. Since their 2002 victory, Brazil has repeatedly brought technically gifted teams to the World Cup only to fall to opponents who are more organized and disciplined.
The arrival of coach Carlo Ancelotti is creating a "revolution". With a seasoned strategist who has led many big teams in top European national leagues, Brazil is adopting a solid, cunning style of play like Italian football; systematic and disciplined like German football; and technical and somewhat spontaneous like Spanish football.
The match against Morocco is a clear example. Although the African team controlled possession more, the number of dangerous opportunities they created was not significantly higher than Brazil's. Conversely, each of Selecao's attacks felt purposeful and carefully calculated. Brazil didn't attack much, but the clear-cut chances they created were very real.
It's noteworthy that Carlo Ancelotti didn't push the tempo of the game. Brazil played slower, more patiently. Their passing combinations were executed cautiously, rather than with the speed and flair of the past. This is the kind of football that bears the hallmark of the strategist who has won the UEFA Champions League five times. In Carlo Ancelotti's philosophy, controlling risk is just as important as creating opportunities.
Looking at the current squad, this is also a logical choice. Brazil no longer possesses a generation of equally talented players in every position like during their peak. The wingers aren't particularly outstanding. The midfield shows seasoned experience, but what's lacking and weak is mobility and the ability to win one-on-one duels. In that context, building a tight, balanced system between attack and defense is the most realistic path.
The most striking impression was in the defense. Brazil's back four against Morocco played with incredible composure. They didn't panic under pressure, nor did they easily rush into uncontrolled challenges. Every action demonstrated their alertness and experience.
Legendary coach Alex Ferguson once said, "Attacking wins you games, but defending wins you championships." Throughout World Cup history, most champions have been teams that conceded the fewest goals in the tournament. Moments of brilliance in attack can decide a match, but defensive solidity determines the entire journey.
Many fans may remember a Brazil that was fiery, spontaneous, and full of emotion. But what Brazil needs most right now is not the glamour, but the pragmatism necessary to compete for the 2026 World Cup trophy.
Video of Vinicius' goal in Brazil's 1-1 draw with Morocco. Source: VTV Sports
Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/the-thao/worldcup-2026/world-cup-2026-co-mot-brazil-thuc-dung-1044306
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