The atmosphere of suspense took over the Brazilian concentration in the United States, just a few days before the eagerly awaited kick-off of the world tournament. Working in the city of Morristown, commander Carlo Ancelotti chose to close his cards this Thursday (11), refusing to give any clue about the starting eleven that will take the field next Saturday, in New Jersey, against the Moroccan team.
The press was allowed to follow only the first quarter of an hour of the activities, enough time to observe an intense dynamic of rapid touches. The Italian coach separated the squad into three distinct blocks that took turns in a reduced space on the field. The rule was clear: as soon as one group lost control of the ball, the third team took over immediately, ensuring a very high level of competitiveness and physical demand.
Despite the high intensity demonstrated by the athletes, the format of the exercise frustrated those seeking to unveil the main tactic. Unlike previous days, where tactical sketches were put to the test, the coaching staff preferred to completely mix the players. This strategy of shuffling the vests ensures that the African opponent does not have prior analysis material regarding Brazil’s initial stance.
The great puzzle of the tactical scheme focuses on the edges of the defensive field. Since the beginning of the concentration, different pieces have been tested to contain the opposing fast wingers, a strong point of the Morocco team. In Tuesday’s training, defender Ibañez was improvised in the right sector to offer greater defensive security, while on Wednesday it was Danilo’s turn to take on the role, emerging as the favorite for the sector.
On the opposite side, the competition for the starting spot remains equally fierce, with Alex Sandro starting at the front to face the strong Moroccan pressing. However, Douglas Santos runs on the outside and keeps hopes of starting to play alive. The athlete who plays in Russian football brings characteristics of strength and constant support to the attack, essential qualities for a duel that promises to require a lot of stamina down the side corridors.
Clinical evolution of the number 10 encourages the technical committee behind the scenes
In parallel with the tactical definitions, the physical situation of the team’s main star remains under strict monitoring. Neymar did not step onto the pitch during the window open to reporters, continuing his specific rehabilitation schedule in the internal facilities. The star is under the intensive care of physiotherapists and fitness trainers, seeking to reach ideal condition as quickly as possible.
Despite his absence on the field, the news coming from behind the scenes brings optimism to the fans. Last Wednesday, images officially released by the national football governing body showed the striker carrying out muscle strengthening work alongside the rest of the group. At a specific moment in the video, it was possible to notice the player making tackles and short passes, a clear sign that the pain had reduced significantly.
Based on the observations of the last few days and the recent history of the coach’s choices, an outline of the starting team begins to emerge. The base structure that must be placed on the lawn has the following parts and variations:
- Defensive system: Alisson as starting goalkeeper; Danilo (or Ibañez) on the right flank, Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães forming the central defense, with Alex Sandro (or Douglas Santos) closing the left flank.
- Creation sector: Casemiro in the main contention, flanked by Bruno Guimarães and Lucas Paquetá in setting up plays and transition.
- Offensive trident: Vini Jr. and Raphinha playing wide on the wings, providing center forward Matheus Cunha in the opponent’s area.
However, official confirmation of these pieces will only occur minutes before the ball rolls at MetLife Stadium. Carlo Ancelotti’s cautious stance reflects the natural tension of a short-shot tournament, where hiding the game and surprising the opponent in the tactical details can be the exact difference between starting the campaign with a solid victory or facing stumbles in the debut.
