The Brazilian performance against Scotland could be analyzed from the perspective of notable individual achievements. Vinicius Jr., for example, has demonstrated a performance worthy of the tournament’s biggest stars. Rayan has emerged as a valuable alternative to Raphinha’s position. Furthermore, the final stretch of the clash marked Neymar’s return to the pitch for the Brazilian team, after a hiatus of almost three years.
However, the impact of Brazil’s collective action surpassed, in relevance, any individual brilliance. Although it was not a flawless game, the result provided considerable relief for the fans, allowing for more peaceful nights. This lull, however, is temporary, extending until next Monday, when Brazil will face Japan, the Netherlands or, less likely, Sweden.
Collective performance shows a new look for the team before the knockouts
Legendary player Juan Román Riquelme used to say that the Copa Libertadores da América really started in the round of 16. Likewise, in this edition, the World Cup actually begins in the round of 16 phase. For Brazil, this is, without a doubt, a new beginning. After a problematic debut against Morocco and a convincing but lackluster victory against Haiti, the team led by Carlo Ancelotti delivered its best match against Scotland. “Now we are a team”, declared the coach after the game, highlighting the transformation.
The opening goal and Brazil’s defensive solidity
The goal scored early on, a gift from the Scottish defender, facilitated the establishment of a favorable scenario for the Brazilian team. However, throughout the confrontation, Brazil demonstrated the ability to dictate the pace and conduct actions according to its strategy, imposing its superiority on the field. Even considering that the European team is not made up of exceptionally talented athletes, the defensive solidity presented by Brazil deserves to be highlighted, with defenders and full-backs displaying impressive consistency.
Offensive attributes and the impact of new players in midfield
The main characteristic of this Brazilian team, high pressure when recovering ball possession, worked effectively. This was evident both in Vinicius Jr.’s early goal and in a questionably disallowed move by the referee. Soft, almost imperceptible contacts have been routinely disregarded in this World Cup, making the cancellation surprising. However, Brazil also displayed other offensive qualities in this game: there were approaches, triangulations and tactical fits that had not yet been observed. Bruno Guimarães and Rayan, a wise choice by Ancelotti, were crucial to this dynamic. Lucas Paquetá, with precise passes, and Matheus Cunha, scoring again, had performances that consolidated their positions in the team.
Consolidating the best performance with a header from Vinicius Jr.
When Brazil scored the third goal, with Vinicius Jr. heading the net in a move that caused embarrassment for the Scottish defense, the team’s best performance in the World Cup was already confirmed, both in collective and individual terms. The hope for a good result in the tournament now seems more like a justified feeling than a mere unfounded expectation. This performance brought the conviction that Ancelotti’s work is solidifying, connecting the team to the standards of excellence that the Italian coach has advocated since his arrival.
Throughout the group stage, it seemed advisable for Ancelotti to carry out more daring tests, given the predictability of the Seleção’s repertoire. It is undeniable, however, that the coach has found a formation — and, in the current circumstances, this team is not far from its maximum potential. Most importantly, Brazil has reached a level that seemed distant just two weeks ago: the team will reach the knockout stage much more consistent than at the start of the World Cup, perhaps even with an extra touch of boldness.