It almost goes without saying that Brazil, the five-times world champions, go into every World Cup heavily favoured to add yet another star to the legendary shirt.
Having played for Brazil at three editions of the global showpiece, coach Carlos Caetano Bledorn Verri, better known as Dunga, will be fully aware that any outcome other than a sixth world crown will likely be considered a failure.
The road to South Africa
Brazil ended the preliminary event on top of the standings, after recording nine wins, seven draws and two defeats and clinching a South Africa 2010 berth with three matchdays to spare. But despite this, the Auriverde camp had been subjected to a torrent of abuse after successive goalless home draws against Argentina, Bolivia and Colombia. Dunga’s charges really hit their stride from April 2009, however, racking up five wins in a row, confirming their passage to South Africa.
Star players
The triumphant Confederations Cup South Africa 2009 campaign cemented Kaka’s place as Brazil’s inspiration, while Luis Fabiano proved himself a truly world-class finisher with five goals including a priceless brace in the 3-2 final win over the USA.
The coach
Upon taking the job in August 2006 Dunga had already experienced the full gambit of emotions that comes with playing for Brazil. Despite the Brazilian national team position being his first coaching role, Dunga answered those who doubted his credentials by guiding the team to triumph in the 2007 Copa America, the Confederations Cup 2009 and qualifying for South Africa 2010 with room to spare.
Facts
- Brazil are preparing to contest their 19th consecutive World Cup. They are the only country to have taken part in every edition of the global showpiece.
- They are also the only country to have won the title five times: amassing a total of 64 victories, 14 draws and 14 defeats in 92 games played.
- Between 15 June 2008 and 11 October 2009, A Seleção went 19 games unbeaten. — Fifa