FIFA World Cup 2018: What next for Brazil?
Considered to be one of the pre-tournament favorites of the FIFA World Cup 2018, Brazil bit the dust as they went out crashing in the quarter-finals against Belgium. Fans, across the globe, were left disappointed with the result of a side that was decimated 1-7 by Germany in the 2014 edition. The recent memories are painful. But what next for Brazil?
Tite will need to determine the future course of action
Post the loss, manager Tite has a lot to ponder about. Should he stay? Should he continue to build on what he started? Under him, Brazil delivered several stunning performances. The most memorable is how they dominated the World Cup Qualifiers. Brazil played with cohesion and pressed hard. He has built a great squad and should be given, at least, one more chance.
Brazil need to get back to the drawing board
Brazil last won the World Cup in 2002. In the next 4 editions, Brazil did not even reach the finals once, as they saw their influence shrink. On the other hand, in this period, the European sides have claimed authority. Like other South American giants, Brazil have failed to live upto the billing and now need to go back to the drawing board.
Players need to find the winning formula in big games
Under Tite, Brazil have scored 56 goals in 26 games. At the back, as well, they have been stingy. They haven't allowed much to pass through them. Even against Belgium they started off well, until Roberto Martinez's false nine tactic paid dividends. However, the players haven't been influential in big games. If Brazil have to win a major trophy, this has to be rectified.
Neymar needs to lead by example
Brazil need to win the Copa America 2019 to announce to the world that they are back to winning ways. Since 1975, they have claimed 5 Copa titles with the last coming back in 2007. And the stage is set for Neymar to show his strengths. He wasn't at his best in Russia and needs to put the agony behind and march on.
Brazil have the required depth
Brazil do not need to build a side as they have a strong unit with plenty of match-winners in their ranks. It is a positive thing for them. They just need to rectify small issues and be more clinical at the big stage.
