As the record World Cup champions, Brazil faces a challenging debut against the fourth-placed team from the previous World Cup, Morocco. The Selecão will step onto the field in New Jersey without their superstar Neymar, adding an air of uncertainty to their campaign. The excitement is palpable as Brazil's coach Carlo Ancelotti and player Raphinha prepare for the match, which takes place on the other side of the Hudson River in East Rutherford, New Jersey, at midnight on Sunday (live on ZDF).
New York, with its myriad attractions, presents a unique backdrop for the Brazilian fans, who find it difficult to navigate through the city’s overwhelming offerings. Each day, more supporters in their vibrant canary yellow jerseys flock to Times Square, revel in the festivities at Rockefeller Center, or enjoy leisurely walks in Central Park as they await the kickoff of their national team’s first match in Group C.
The clash against Morocco is crucial, especially given Brazil's disappointing performance in the last World Cup qualifying rounds, where they finished fifth, trailing the champions Argentina by ten points. Ancelotti, known for his calm demeanor, expressed caution regarding the impending challenge, acknowledging Morocco's strong showing in the last World Cup. He remarked, “Honestly, I don’t see a team that stands out above the others.” With the hopes of the nation resting on his shoulders, Ancelotti aims to end Brazil's title drought, which has lasted nearly a quarter of a century, on this American stage. The New York-New Jersey stadium, as per FIFA's terminology, is also set to host the final match of the tournament.
As a seasoned coach with a wealth of experience, Ancelotti embodies a blend of paternal guidance and respect. His ability to unite individual talents into a cohesive team will be tested, especially when managing the personalities of his star players. The return of Neymar, who last played for the national team in October 2023, adds another layer of complexity. Even Brazil's president Lula has called for Neymar's comeback, citing the historical precedent of Ronaldo, who made a remarkable return just weeks before Brazil's 2002 World Cup triumph.
In Group C, Brazil will face a mix of favorites, dark horses, and underdogs, with teams like Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti vying for supremacy in what promises to be an exciting tournament. Currently, Neymar is sidelined due to a muscle injury, preventing his participation against Morocco, which raises questions about his fitness and impact within the team dynamics. Nevertheless, he remains a significant marketing figure, boasting 234 million followers on Instagram, where he promotes various products from frozen foods to football boots.
With Africa being represented by ten teams in this World Cup, including Morocco and Senegal, the competition is fierce. Neymar's aspirations are high as he declares, “I will enjoy every second, every moment of this World Cup and hope it will be something truly special.” Brazil's football federation shares this ambition, as evidenced by the message displayed on the video walls at their luxurious team hotel, The Ridge, in Basking Ridge, which translates to “It is forbidden to dream small.” This location, nearly an hour's drive from Manhattan, serves as a tranquil retreat away from the distractions of the bustling city.
As reported by zdfheute.de.
