Brazil appear to have rediscovered some of the steps of the rhythmic Samba like Soccer that once put them on top of the world.
They are doing it under a coach who has recognized the need to overlook the traditional 4-3-3 formation in favor of the more fielder approach of a packed midfield.
Sebastiao Lazaroni under fire from Brazilian media and fans up to a week ago, was finally accepted by his critics after his side demolished Diego Maradona’s Argentina in the South American Championship.
He is lining up three defenders, one of them A Libero and five men in midfield in the manner of Argentina’s World Cup wining side in Mexico in 1986.
Lazaroni introduced the change after three defeats on a tour of Europe last month
although it took him time to rebuild team confidence amid criticism over his selection policies.
‘The mood in the Braziliar camp ahead of Friday’s clash with Paraguay was relaxed and in total contrast with that in Salvador where Brazil romped to a 20 victory over the world champions with a superb goal from Bebeto and a gift from the Argentine defense that enabled Romario to score.
“J think that to win the Copa America will be very important to regain a bit of Brazilain football’s prestige,” Bebeto said. “After all, world champions Argentina are he, and Uruguay, two powers in world football.
Brazil, whose last major title was their third World cup triumph in Mexico in 1970, are looking for the fourth time. They last won it at home in 1949.
Article extracted from this publication >> July 28, 1989
