Squad analysis: Brazil are one of the favorites this time
Brazil may have missed out in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, at home, after going down to Germany 7-1 in the semis. But come Russia, they boast of a better all-round squad. The 23-man Brazil squad is packed with some big names and many of them are in form. This makes Brazil dangerous and the South American giants could go all the way.
Overall squad is mixed with class and glamour
Like Germany and Spain, the Brazil squad hardly has any loopholes. Brazil are well covered in every department and their bench strength is strong enough to make an impact when called upon. From their goal-keeper to forwards, Brazil would go into the tournament with a positive mindset. Neymar's road to recovery from injury is also taking shape.
Ederson to lead goalkeeping duties
Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson has earned worldwide reputation after a stellar season with the Premier League champions. The player is expected be Brazil's custodian. He is well supported by AS Roma custodian Alisson Becker. Cassio is the third choice keeper.
Silva, Marcelo lead strong defensive structure
What bodes well for Brazil is that the defensive options have been in prime form this term. Marcelo and Felipe Luiz are the options at left-back. They won the Champions League and Europa League respectively. French champions PSG duo Thiago Silva and Marquinhos are top central defenders. Inter Milan's Miranda is a vital force too. City's Danilo will play as right-back.
A dream mid-field combination lights up the squad
Real Madrid star Casemiro is set to lead the defensive mid-field role. Then there is another champion in Manchester City's Fernandinho as his back-up. Manchester United target Fred, brings a lot of attributes into the squad. He is likely to start ahead of Barcelona's Paulinho. Coutinho is another big name in this attacking mid-field. Augusto will lend his voice from the bench.
Neymar-led attack rules the roost
Neymar will be leading a three-man attack for Brazil, given they are likely to with a 4-3-3 formation. Shakhtar Donetsk's Taison will provide back-up to Neymar. He played only five minutes during Brazil's qualifying campaign. Tite's squad also sees Willian and Douglas Costa battling for a place of the right-winger. In-form City striker Gabriel Jesus and Liverpool's Roberto Firmino are the customary forwards.
Neymar crucial for Brazil's chances
Although they have a packed squad filled with superstars, Neymar gives the side an added advantage. He has 53 goals in 83 appearances for Brazil which shows his enormous calibre. In 2014 World Cup, Neymar was phenomenal for Brazil. He was their leading goal-scorer (4).
