Five-time World Cup champions Brazil, take on Mexico at the Castelo Stadium in the group stage match of the FIFA Confederations Cup.A win today will ensure Brazil, a semi-final spot. Being one of the strongest teams of the tournament, Brazil is looking forward to play their most beautiful version of the world’s favourite sport against Mexico,who defeated Brazil 2-1 at the London Olympics. Nothing less than a fourth title will be good enough for the Canaries.
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The current Brazilian team is formed under Luis Felipe Scolari’s own image. ‘Big Phil’ almost looks spoiled for choice after his team’s 3-0 comprehensive victory over Japan.The new squad looks promising with a bright future. Scholari has taken over the team to win the World Cup with his tested game plans and strategy. The classic Samba style of play was reflected in their opening match against the Nippons.
“It is obvious the Olympics match against Mexico was a very sad moment for us and the entire country, but revenge is not on my mind.” -Paris Saint-Germain defender,Thiago Silva.
Brazil has one of the strongest defence in the tournament,comprising PSG centre back and captain Thiago Silva ,who will partner alongside David Luiz or Bayern Munich’s Dante.The Brazilian boys are all fierce and strong in the tackle.Daniel Alves and Marcelo will operate themselves as rightback and leftback respectively.They just love to rampage forward with the keen purpose of delivering the ball into the box.Scholari will prefer to opt Gustavo,Paulinho and Oscar in midfield.The coach believes that the trio will be able to unleash their best potential against the Mexican superstars.Oscar will once again operate himself as the main hub of Brazilian counter attack.Brazilian sensation Neymar, will join alongside Hulk and Fred in the attack.Without doubt,Neymar will be man marked by the Mexican defenders for his tempestuous and peripheral talent on the pitch.
Mexico’s entry to the tournament looks unconvincing,as the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup winners struggled against a dominating Italian side,who defeated them 2-1.The Mexican defence has often looked shaky and undependable at crucial times,but that will not stop them from showing their true strength against the Selecao.Manchester United‘s striker Javier Hernandez is the soul inspiration of the Mexicans.Jose de la Torre will most probably use the 4-2-3-1 formation,which allows Giovanni Dos Santos more room to deploy his talent.
Brazil have won 14 of the 23 games between them, outscoring Mexico 44 goals to 25 in the process.Brazil have scored 28 goals in their last eight matches since Big Phil returned with an average of 3.3 goals per game.Mexico did win in their last encounter in a 2-0 friendly win in Texas in June thanks to goals from Giovani dos Santos and Javier Hernandez.
Probable Lineups
Brazil : Júlio César, Daniel Alves, Thiago Silva, David Luiz, Marcelo, Luiz Gustavo, Paulinho, Oscar, Hulk, Jo, NeymarMexico: Corona, Flores, Francisco Rodríguez, Héctor Moreno, Salcido, Torrado, Aquino, Guardado, Zavala, Giovani dos Santos, Chicharito Hernández.
Predicted Score: Brazil 3-1Mexico
