Brazil is renowned for its international soccer prowess. The South American country consistently places high on the list of international rankings, and it’s easy to see why fans from around the world tune in when Brazil’s national teams participate in the World Cup. Strangely, though, it’s been 20 years since Brazil brought home the most prestigious award in international soccer.
So, after having won five World Cup championships and then spending the past 20 years seeking to relive the glory of 2002, does Brazil have a shot of going all the way once more? Let’s look at some history to find out what it would mean for Brazil to win again.
Brazil vs The World
In 1998, Brazil’s national team dropped a very narrow loss to France. This was a bitter defeat; after making it deep into the competition, Brazil was devastated to lose at the eleventh hour. In 2002, bolstered by all-time great players like Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Cafu, and Nazario, Brazil went all the way and posted a perfect World Cup tournament.
That year, the national team didn’t drop a single game throughout its stellar run and finished the event by defeating Germany 2-0, cementing the country as world champions. The atmosphere in the country following the victory was ecstatic, with many celebrating the victory with block parties and parades for days after the win.
Brazil Looks to End Drought
Brazilians are looking forward to the 2022 contest as a chance to end their 20-year drought. "We know it's been a long time since we have won it. We were close in 2006, and also in 2010, and of course the result at home against Germany... no-one wants to remember that," says José Kléberson, a legendary Brazilian soccer player who is currently the assistant coach of the New York City FC.
"I believe, however, that it's all about the generations and a lot of things change,” he went on. “A lot of Brazilian players have changed during those times and thanks to the younger players now, those playing in Europe, Brazil has a great chance again to win the World Cup. It's a process and we need to continue this process in order to see Brazil play the way it can."
The team will face stiff competition this year: Spain and Argentina both look stronger than ever ahead of the contest, and some dark horse teams like Denmark could even cause an upset.