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The Brazilian national team is eager to win the World Cup this time around after their shock loss to Germany which dashed all hopes. It was the most embarrassing game for the host nation back in 2014 and eventually, Brazil lost to the Netherlands in the 3rd place match. Since then, there had been managerial changes to the team.
The final 23-man squad which travelled to Russia included quite a number of new faces who will make their first World Cup appearance. Although they may not have played in the World Cup, the players who include Gabriel Jesus and Philippe Coutinho are already well-known players around the world.
Tite has plenty of players at his disposal and all are raring for a chance to shine. He has experimented with the players he selected in the final 23-man squad and will surely name the best in their opener against Switzerland. Judging at the defence, midfield, and attack, Brazil is strong in all areas.
There is no reason for Brazil not to make it far in the competition and they could win the trophy for the sixth time. The South Americans last won the World Cup in 2002. They came close when they hosted all the action in 2014, but the title eventually went to Germany.
The Canarinha will face the Swiss, followed by Costa Rice and lastly Serbia. In this group, Tite's men are expected to top the group and advance without much problem. Die Nati who have impressed in their journey to the World Cup could be slightly more difficult to get past as compared to the rest of the opponents in the group. Nevertheless, Brazil with their incredibly strong players will be a joy to watch this summer. Here is a look at the five stars of Brazil.
#5 Alisson Becker
Even though his compatriot Ederson won the Premier League title together with Manchester City, Alisson is all set to become Brazil's first choice keeper. It will be the Brazilian's first time playing in the World Cup. After making his debut under Dunga in the year 2015, Alisson has gone on to make 26 international appearances for his nation. Amidst his performances, he kept 17 clean sheets and conceded just 11 goals.
The Roma goalkeeper is extremely proficient in saving close range shots and has quick reflexes. He is very much a complete keeper who has strengths in all areas and no significant weaknesses. This makes him a strong contender for the Golden Glove award and Brazil is expected to perform well this year.
Not too long ago, the 25-year-old was named in the UEFA Champions League Squad of the season. This adds to his stellar portfolio and he has certainly established himself as a top goalkeeper in the world. His opponents will definitely encounter problems getting past him and the stage is all set for him to take the spotlight.
#4 Marcelo
The Real Madrid defender recently lifted the Champions League trophy before joining his Brazil team-mates for their preparation for this World Cup. In the 2010 edition of the World Cup, Marcelo failed to make it to the Brazil squad. For the year his nation hosted the competition, he played every single minute except during the final match loss to the Netherlands.
Marcelo's greatest upset during the 2014 games was probably the 1-7 thrashing by Germany. It was a nightmare for all the Brazilians who will attempt to put the past behind them. In Marcelo's 54 international appearances, he has scored six goals and came up with 12 assists. This includes the two assists he provided in the previous World Cup.
The 30-year-old is notably strong in his passing and crossing. He seems to be able to remain energetic throughout the full 90 minutes of a match and is always able to find his team-mates in the right positions. With that, Marcelo is a valuable asset to both his club and his nation.
#3 Philippe Coutinho
The former Liverpool star was such a hit at Anfield and in the Premier League. His ability to control the ball and read the game was widely appreciated by his team-mates. Most of the time, Liverpool relied on him to create something out of nothing in the midfield.
The right-footer has now moved to join Barcelona where he scored eight goals and provided five assists in 18 La Liga matches. As a regular player for Brazil, Coutinho has made 37 international appearances and scored 10 goals. In the previous edition of the World Cup, the Brazilian was not included in the host nation's squad. Now, it is time for him to make his first appearance in the elite competition.
At 26 years of age, Coutinho has gained plenty of experience in Europe during his time with Liverpool. Everyone knows his name and is aware of what he can do with the ball. The midfield magician has a knack for scoring and was likened to be a contender for the Golden Boot before the competition began. In the last match against Austria, Coutinho found the net. It was his second goal in four matches played in 2018 and the Barcelona player is expected to be named in the starting line-up.
#2 Gabriel Jesus
The youngster has accumulated 17 appearances till date and scored 10 goals. It is simply an amazing record for the Manchester City player who is destined for success this summer. Not just is he a Brazilian to look out for in the competition, he is one of the youngsters that will definitely get everyone excited when he touches the ball.
Jesus has huge boots to fill in Russia and there is bound to be lots of pressure on him to perform his best. The 21-year-old has established himself as a regular starter under Tite who clearly admires his talent. His strengths include being able to hold onto the ball and finish off strongly in the final third of the pitch.
Playing alongside a strong midfield, Jesus will have a large number of opportunities for him to shine. The most important thing is for him to keep a cool head and perform when he is given the chance. Tite is rumored to be torn over the decision of whether to start Roberto Firmino or the Manchester City star. Both of them are extremely vital players on the Brazil team and have their unique traits.
Regardless of who will start, the Sao Paulo born player is bound to play a role in Brazil's campaign this summer. He is certainly one of those that opponents will be wary of.
#1 Neymar
Every team in the World Cup is fearing this man. His record transfer fee of €222 million to Paris Saint-Germain shocked the world. Eventually, Neymar admitted that he was not worth all that money. Even if he is not worth that sum, the Brazilian know how much he is worth to the team.
The captain has earnt 85 international caps so far and scored 55 goals. His 2014 campaign ended abruptly after a back injury which he suffered while playing against Brazil. This time around, Neymar is determined to challenge for the trophy once again. The left-winger is all but confirmed to be starting for his nation and Tite is aware of his eagerness to play in the competition.
According to the statistics gathered by WhoScored, the 26-year-old is competent in dribbling the ball and taking set-pieces. One flaw about the former Barcelona player is that he hardly contributes defensively, but his attacking talents will surely help Brazil to a large extent. This season, he showcased his capabilities in Ligue 1 and was a star performer for PSG. In 20 games, he created 71 chances, won 63% of his duels and had a shot accuracy of 63% too. It seems like there is no better man in his position and Neymar is set to start for his nation.
