Source: Getty Images
FIFA ranking: 1
How they qualified: CONMEBOL qualifying winners
2018 World Cup performance: Quarter-finals
Previous World Cup appearances: 21
Best result: Winners (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002)
Background
Source: New Indian Express
Brazil are the bookies’ favourites to go all the way at this winter’s World Cup and it is not difficult to see why. Brazil are currently the only nation to have appeared in all 21 previous World Cup tournaments and are heading into the 2022 edition in perhaps the best mood since the 2014 World Cup on home soil. They not only managed to qualify as CONMEBOL qualifying winners in style – unbeaten while scoring 40 goals and conceding five – but their squad is packed full of attacking flair that will cause coach Tite selection headaches. Previous Brazil teams perhaps relied heavily on their attack, and while this Brazil team is well-stocked upfront, they are now also well-balanced defensively, conceding in only four of their 17 qualifying matches. If the Seleção can replicate that sort of form on the world stage, Brazil will likely be lifting their first World Cup trophy in 20 years.
The Coach – Tite
Source: Getty Images
Tite’s managerial career spans over 30 years and 14 different teams. His career has primarily been spent in his native Brazil, with smaller teams such as Caxias and Veranópolis, but the Brazilian eventually climbed the managerial ladder to take charge of Brazilian heavyweight Palmeiras, Internacional, and Corinthians, before taking charge of the national team in 2016.
Tite was appointed coach of the Seleção in the summer of 2016 after his predecessor Dunga struggled to lead the nation out of that year’s Copa America group stage. Since Tite’s appointment, Brazil managed to comfortably qualify for the 2018 World Cup, in which they rather disappointingly bowed out in the quarter-finals against Belgium, and win the 2019 Copa America, as well as reach the final in 2021. This will be the 61-year-old’s sixth year at the helm of the national team and most likely his last, as his contract only runs until the end of the 2022 World Cup, with sources claiming he is finally ready for a challenge in European football.
Key Player – Neymar
Source: Eurosport
Neymar might not be perhaps as crucial to Brazil as in previous years, mostly due to the attacking options available to Brazil, but he is still Brazil’s poster boy. At 30, the man himself admitted this will likely be his last World Cup and today he is a much more mature leader of the team than his showboating skills suggest. In the current system, Neymar is perhaps more of a midfielder than a forward, and due to this, he is much more influential for the team as he is able to link midfield with attack. Neymar is currently sitting only two goals shy of Pelé’s all-time goal-scoring record for Brazil and he will surely want to end his final World Cup not only as Brazil’s all-time top scorer but also as a World Champion.
Predicted Line-up
World Cup Chances
Source: Sky Sports
Brazil are currently the best team in the world on paper, which is backed by the bookies suggesting Brazil will win the 2022 World Cup. Of course, football is not played on paper, but it is difficult to argue against Brazil being the team best prepared to win the tournament in Qatar. They have a squad packed full of quality, starting from the goalkeeper position where they have not one but two world-class goalkeepers in Alisson and Ederson, a defence that is a perfect combination of experience and youth in Thiago Silva and Militao, a midfield including hardman Casemiro and the more creative Paqueta, and of course an attack featuring Neymar, Vinicius Jr and Richarlison. They have been drawn in a relatively easy group including Serbia, Switzerland, and Cameroon, and if the Brazil squad can finally come together and stay clear of any major injuries, it is likely Brazil will be lifting their sixth crown in Qatar.
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CONMEBOL (governing body of football in South America) changed the format of their main continental club competition from a home and away leg final, which had been in existence since 1960, to a single neutral venue final in 2019. Flamengo won that first new style final in Lima, Peru, and were strong favourites to take the trophy home to Rio de Janeiro again for a third time in their history.
On Halloween weekend the streets of Ecuador’s largest city Guayaquil were packed full of tens of thousands of Portuguese-speaking football fans, dressed in the red and black colours of both Brazilian sides Flamengo from Rio and Club Athletico Paranaense from Curitiba.
The 60,000-capacity Estadio Monumental, home to Ecuador’s most successful club side Barcelona Sporting Club, was only about three-quarters full as the teams entered the pitch in a humid 27 degrees. As well as sizeable support from Brazil’s most popular team Flamengo, Paranaense also brought a decent support with them from the west coast of South America to the northeast coast. Many intrigued Ecuador football fans, wearing a mixture of yellow Ecuador shirts and Barcelona SC shirts, paid the sizeable 245 US Dollar entry prices to join the Brazilian fans watching the prestigious final. To put that price into perspective in terms of prices in Ecuador, the 20-minute Uber ride from Guayaquil’s airport to the stadium typically costs just 6 USD.
Flamengo suffered an early blow in the match when former Chelsea defender Filipe Luís limped off with an injury after just 20 minutes.
A controversial moment shortly before half time had a massive bearing on the outcome of the match. Paranaense defender Pedro Henrique was given a second yellow card by Argentinean referee Patricio Loustau for what seemed like a fair tackle as Flamengo broke forward.
While the Curitiba side were still adjusting to being down to ten men, Flamengo got a crucial goal just moments before the referee blew his whistle for half time. Gabriel Barbosa slotted the ball home at the far post following an inch-perfect cross into the box.
There was much thinking to be done by Paranaense manager Felipe Scolari at the break, as the former Chelsea and Brazil manager had to motivate his players to suddenly being a man and a goal down.
However, there was nothing his team could do in the second half to change things around as Flamengo held on for the single-goal victory to be crowned the 2022 Copa Libertadores Champions.
The win means that Flamengo qualifies as the South American representative for the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup, the venue and timing of which are still to be determined. The Rubro-Negros (Scarlet-Blacks) have also earned the right to play Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle, who recently won the 2022 Copa Sudamericana, in the Recopa Sudamericana in February 2023.
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]]>Brazil stepped up their World Cup preparations with a pair of friendlies in France as the African duo of Ghana and Tunisia were disposed of with ease.
Le Havre was the perhaps strange choice of venue for the match against the ‘Black Stars’ on Friday with Tottenham striker Richarlison notching twice in a comfortable 3-0 win.
Marquinhos opened the scoring, which was all done in the first half as coach Tite made six substitutions to experiment in the second half.
Richarlison was also on the scoresheet as Tunisia were beaten 5-1 in Paris but it Raphinha who took the headlines on this occasion, bagging a brace with Neymar and Pedro helping themselves to a goal each.
It has helped showcase the embarrassment of riches Brazil have in attack which has many people tipping the five-time winners to make it number six in Qatar.
A potential front three of Raphinha, Neymar and Vinicius Junior is more reminiscent of some of the famous Brazilian attacks in the past rather than recent versions featuring the likes of Fred and Hulk.
Richarlison looks like the first port of call should changes need to be made but the squad depth is frightening. Rodrygo, Pedro, Antony, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Matheus Cunha and Roberto Firmino are just some of the names in the frame to make the 26 man squad. The Arsenal duo were not even called up this time around.
The attack may be where the star power lies but that is not to say other departments are not also well stocked.
‘A Selecao’ boast two of the worlds finest goalkeepers battling it out for the starting jersey in Ederson and Alisson.
Marquinhos and Thiago Silva started the friendlies in the centre of defence with Serie A duo Bremer and Roger Ibanez in reserve. Gabriel Magalhaes of Arsenal was sitting watching from home.
Casemiro offers the protection in midfield with Fabinho as good a deputy as you are likely to find. Fred of Manchester United is also a firm favourite of Tite.
West Ham’s new arrival Lucas Paqueta offers something different from the middle as opposed to the abundance of options on the wings, with Philippe Coutinho hoping to hit some form in the next two months to force his way back in. Bruno Guimaraes is another midfield option.
It’s perhaps the full back areas that are the main area of weakness but attacking flair from those areas may not be needed as much, such is the strength further up the field.
Alex Telles got the nod for the two friendlies at left-back with Eder Militao and Danilo getting a game each on the opposite flank. Militao of course will be hoping to shift inside and claim a starting slot in the heart of the defence.
Brazil coasted through qualifying but haven’t reached the final now since their last victory in 2002. It is hard to argue against the fact that this is the strongest squad in years and offers the best chance of another triumph 20 years on.
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Ajax are close to securing their 36th Eredivisie title as they are four points ahead of PSV with just three games left in the campaign.
Manager Erik ten Hag has already been announced as the next man in charge at Manchester United, and it seems many players could follow him out of the club this summer. Here are a few of the Ajax players who could leave in the next window.
Ryan Gravenberch
Gravenberch has attracted interest after impressive displays for both club and country over the past two years. The 19-year-old’s current contract expires at the end of the 2022/23 season, and it is likely that the club will sell him this summer after he revealed that he will not sign a new contract.
The midfielder has been linked with a move to the Premier League, with Manchester United and Liverpool both showing interest. Still, reports have stated that Gravenberch favours a move to Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich.
Bayern have reportedly already placed a bid worth £12.6 million, but Ajax rejected it as they want a minimum of £21 million.
The Dutch international has made 30 league appearances, scoring twice and assisting his teammates five times. He has won the league title twice with Ajax and won two Dutch league cups. He was also part of the Dutch under-17 side that won the U17 European Championship in 2018.
Noussair Mazraoui
With the 24-year-old’s contract set to expire this summer, Mazraoui has been on the radar of many teams across Europe.
Bayern are once again favourites to sign to right-back on a free transfer, but he has also been linked with Arsenal, Manchester United, and Barcelona, who signed their current full-back Sergino Dest from the same club.
Bayern have either played Benjamin Pavard at right-back or opted to play with three central defenders to accommodate their right-hand side. Julian Nagelsmann wants the deal to be secured sooner rather than later as Mazraoui is yet to choose his preferred suitor.
The Morrocan international has played in 23 league games this season and played in all of Ajax’s Champions League fixtures. He has nine combined goals and assists this season and has also shown he can play in central midfield.
It seems like Antony could be Ajax’s big cash cow for the summer as the Brazilian winger continues to excite fans with his silky performances on the pitch.
Barcelona, Liverpool, Bayern, and Manchester United have been battling for Antony’s signature, with Juventus rumoured to have joined the potential bidding war in recent days.
The 22-year-old has scored 12 times and racked up eight assists in all competitions this season. His impressive performances in the Champions League helped Ajax win all their six group games, with big wins over Sporting Lisbon and Borussia Dortmund.
He has been integrated into the Brazil squad after manager Tite admired his club performances. Antony played in nine of Brazil’s World Cup qualifiers, starting in the final two, and scoring twice. He was also part of the Olympic team that won gold in Tokyo last summer.
Despite openly wanting a move away from the club in January, Tagliafico has played an important role in Ajax’s domestic campaign this season.
The Argentine had his heart set on a move to Barcelona to join Xavi’s revival at the club, but the move could not be completed before the deadline. He expressed his disappointment in his current side for not doing more to get the transfer completed, and he will likely once more seek a move away in the summer.
It is unclear whether Barcelona are still interested in the left-back, but Chelsea and Atletico Madrid have been linked with a move for the 29-year-old.
Tagliafico played five times in Argentina’s recent Copa America success but only made nine appearances in the World Cup qualifiers due to various injuries.
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]]>The Lightweight Division has long been home to some of the most captivating fighters throughout the UFC’s history. Superstars like Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov and B.J. Penn have all fought at 145 lb, bringing in millions of viewers to the promotion’s ever-growing audience.
The division is often categorised as the toughest in the roster, yet few former champions have fought through adversity better than the current holder: Charles Oliveira. A so-far 14-year MMA career has been crammed with a mixture of highs and lows, and the journey is set to take another step next weekend at UFC 274.
Early Inconsistency
Oliveira has made a name for himself as one of the best finishers at President Dana White’s disposal. Just three of the Brazilian’s 29 UFC bouts have gone the distance, showcasing the frightening ability that his opponents must overcome. Unfortunately for ‘Do Bronx’, there were difficult periods earlier on his promotion career which saw him on the receiving end of multiple premature stoppages.
Before the beginning of his current unbeaten streak, Oliveira won just nine out of his first 17 UFC fights between 2010 and 2018, being finished himself in seven. Not the record often associated with a champion. The last of these came at the hands of Paul Felder, a bout which saw the now 32-year-old attempt to tap out to punches, an act many avid fight fans criticised him for.
Despite this, Oliveira was still taking on some of the most dangerous fighters possible, as well as repeatedly bouncing between featherweight and lightweight. The constant inconsistencies meant he could never make his way to the pinnacle of either division, however, and the majority of the MMA fanbase never really thought of the Brazilian as a serious threat for the belt.
Recent Success
After succumbing to the onslaught of Felder at UFC 218, even the most controversial of promotion enthusiasts would not have predicted what was to come next. Oliveira’s next matchup came six months later, where he took on MMA veteran Clay Guida. ‘Do Bronx’ overcame his opponent with ease, completing a guillotine submission after just two minutes and 18 seconds. It certainly didn’t seem to signify much at the time, but this was to be the beginning of an outrageous winning streak which would last until modern day. This would subsequently coincide with his switching of camps to Chute Boxe Diego Lima.
The Brazilian would go on to win all seven of his fights over the next year-and-a-half, ending the contest early in all but one of them. He took on the likes of Kevin Lee, Jim Miller and the well-renowned Tony Ferguson during this period, emerging victorious pretty convincingly against all of them.
Throughout these eighteen months, Oliveira’s impressive run had seemingly gone under the radar. The division was under the dominating rule of Khabib Nurmagomedov and his violent rivalry with the notorious Conor McGregor. After the former retired from MMA in October 2020, the lightweight belt was left unguarded and up for grabs for someone to claim. Oliveira had been steadily climbing the ranks, and White saw fit to arrange a title fight between the Brazilian and promotion newcomer Michael Chandler at UFC 262.
Despite getting knocked down in the first couple of minutes during one of Chandler’s several flurries of punches, ‘Do Bronx’ claimed a second-round victory. He cracked the American with a perfectly timed left hook 6 seconds in, sending him flailing down to the canvas. Ten seconds later, referee Dan Miragliotta waved off the fight.
Oliveira was now the undisputed Lightweight champion – before the Guida fight he hadn’t even been ranked. Although he hadn’t had to beat Khabib for the belt, it was still an incredible underdog story that the fanbase hadn’t seen for a while (arguably since Rose Namajunas beat Joanna Jedrzejczyk at UFC 217). His next fight, however, was to be against the hard-hitting Dustin Poirier, fresh off the back of two wins against McGregor.
This defence is widely regarded as the 32-year-old’s magnum opus. Few gave Oliveira a chance last December, and despite again being dropped quite easily in the first round, he utilised his excellent Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skillset to drain the American of energy and earn another submission victory via rear-naked choke.
UFC 274
Next weekend marks the long-awaited bout between ‘Do Bronx’ and stand-up artist Justin Gaethje. The latter has been gunning for a title shot since falling short to Khabib back in 2020, coming off the back of a decision win against Chandler at UFC 268 last November. Both of Oliveira’s title fight opponents have had a similar fighting style, and the latest is certainly no different. It’s almost guaranteed that the Brazilian will come into the bout with a ground game plan, comparable to what he showed in his performance against Poirier.
The 32-year-old is most dangerous from the back, and his Jiu-Jitsu transitions make it extremely challenging to keep him away from that area (even if his opponent is standing). A 3rd degree black belt in BJJ, he averages 2.5 takedowns every 15 minutes; compare this to the fact he attempts 2.8 on average in the same amount of time, and you’ve got a terrifying octagon counterpart. Gaethje’s takedown defence is not exceptional at just 73% (his main downfall against Khabib), therefore the American will have to improve going into the main event.
Chandler also unfortunately discovered that Oliveira’s stand-up game can’t be overlooked. The champion has earned three knockout victories in his last six fights, landing 3.4 significant strikes on average per minute. The 32-year-old does, however, absorb 3.1 strikes every 60 seconds, which will be a worrying amount going into a bout against the overwhelming nature of Gaethje.
UFC 274 may mark the most challenging fight of Oliveira’s career so far, but if there’s anything that the man from Guarujá knows, it’s how to beat the odds.
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]]>Brazil, Switzerland, and Serbia have been drawn into the same group for the second consecutive World Cup.
The three nations were put in Group G during the draw in Doha, four years after playing each other during the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Last time out, Brazil topped the group with seven points and progressed to the knockout rounds along with Switzerland, who finished on five points. Serbia only managed to get points in one of their fixtures as they beat Costa Rica, who finished bottom of the group with one point.
Here are how the games played out in 2018…
Brazil vs Switzerland
Going into the tournament, Brazil and Switzerland were the favourites to progress from the group. Marcelo was captaining the Brazilians, who were looking to revive themselves from their embarrassing exit from the 2014 World Cup to Germany.
The game was even in terms of possession but Brazil were more dangerous going forward and created more chances than their European counterparts.
Coutinho opened the scoring in typical Coutinho fashion as he cut inside onto his right foot and bent the ball around Yann Sommer from outside of the box. They led the game at half-time but were pegged back shortly after the break.
Xherdan Shaqiri delivered a corner and Steven Zuber rose above everyone to win the header and put it into the roof of the net. This was one of Switzerland’s two shots on target in the entire game, but it was enough for them to secure an important draw against the most successful side in the tournament’s history.
Switzerland vs Serbia
Serbia went into this game sitting top of the table, knowing a win over Switzerland would see them qualify for the knockout stages.
They started the game perfectly for Serbia as Aleksandar Mitrovic showed his superb aerial ability as he nodded home Dusan Tadic’s cross.
The first half consisted of 19 shots between the two sides but only Mitrovic managed to find the back of the net. The second half however was a very different story.
Switzerland carried on their attacking nature in the next half, but Serbia struggled to build on their lead.
Seven minutes into the second half, the ball rebounded to the edge of the box and Granit Xhaka was on hand to rifle the ball into the side netting and equalise the game. This fixture was an important one for Xhaka due to his family’s heritage from Albania and Kosovo, and the political struggles between those countries and Serbia. Another player with a similar story is the Swiss’ talisman Xherdan Shaqiri.
Mario Gavranovic, one of the Swiss heroes at Euro 2020, played Shaqiri in on goal in the 90th minute and the winger slotted the ball past Vladimir Stojkovic in goal. This sparked pandemonium amongst the Swiss fans as Shaqiri and Xhaka celebrated the goal together by performing a ‘double eagle’ gesture, a celebration they were later fined for.
Brazil vs Serbia
Serbia needed to beat Brazil in their final group game whereas a draw was enough for the South American side to progress.
It was an awkward start for Brazil after Marcelo picked up an injury in the tenth minute and had to be replaced by then Atletico Madrid player Filipe Luis.
Brazil grew into the half well and both Neymar and Gabriel Jesus came close to scoring before Paulinho eventually gave them the lead. The midfielder lobbed Stojkovic after Coutinho put him in behind.
After the hour mark, Serbia finally found some attacking momentum as Mitrovic had two opportunities to tie the game.
His first effort was blocked on the line by Thiago Silva and four minutes his header was brilliantly saved by Alisson in goal.
Just as they began growing into the game, Silva dealt a fatal blow to Aleksander Kolarov’s side after he scored a header of his own to give Brazil a 2-0 lead.
The game was comfortable from there on in for Brazil and as Switzerland drew 2-2 to Costa Rica in the final group game, the Brazilians topped Group E.
Cameroon have been drawn alongside these three nations for the Qatar World Cup which will be taking place in November and December.
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]]>There are now 232 days until the opening game of the World Cup and we learned on Friday who would face who as the group stage draw took place in the Qatari capital.
Delegates from around the world flew in as former players such as Cafu, Tim Cahill and Ali Daei took part in the draw ceremony that saw 29 confirmed nations discover their fate while three play-off contenders also discovered what could potentially be ahead for them.
The draw threw up plenty of exciting and intriguing groups and while there probably is not a ‘group of death’ as such, almost every country will fancy their chances of having some sort of success in November.
Group A
Qatar, Ecuador, Senegal, Netherlands
So we finally found out what the opening game will be and it is the hosts Qatar taking on Ecuador. It won’t look like a thriller on paper but it will give the debutants some belief that they can get off to a decent start.
African champions Senegal taking on the Netherlands looks like one of the group stage highlights and both will fancy their chances of reaching the knockout stages. A final game clash between Ecuador and Senegal could well decide qualification.
Group B
England, Iran, USA, Wales/Ukraine/Scotland
Well, this was certainly the group for lovers of narrative.
On paper, it appears to be quite a nice draw for England but without knowing who will come through the play-off in June, it is hard to draw too many conclusions.
The USA and England have played out some memorable World Cup games in the past while Iran famously saw off the States in 1998 for a first-ever World Cup victory.
The prospect however of a battle between two home nations on the biggest stage is mouth-watering and with it being the final group game, there could be a lot on the line.
Group C
Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Poland
A nice group appeared for Lionel Messi on what will probably be his last shot at winning the tournament. Argentina will be hopeful of topping the group with none of the other three sides having much success in recent editions.
Mexico and Poland will know their opening clash will go a long way to who will advance while Saudi Arabia would appear unlikely to get anything in what is quite a daunting group for the Middle Eastern side.
Mexico’s quest for a fifth match at a World Cup would most likely see them up against France in the last 16 in what would be an enormously difficult encounter for the North Americans.
Group D
France, UAE/Australia/Peru, Denmark, Tunisia
Should Peru or Australia make it through the intercontinental play-off in June, Group D will see three-quarters of the participants in Group C from 2018 in the same group once more.
France came through that group en route to winning the tournament back then and Les Bleus and Denmark will be feeling confident of a repeat result four years on.
Tunisia will be looking to cause an upset somewhere and build on their victory over Panama in 2018.
Look out for the matchday two clash between France and Denmark where a Danish win would throw everyone’s knockout predictions up in the air and open up the draw. It always happens somewhere and that could be the game that does it.
Group E
Spain, Costa Rica/New Zealand, Germany, Japan
Spain against Germany on November 27th is the standout fixture of the group stage draw but it has the look of a clash that will decide first place in the group, rather than knock a giant out.
Both sides will be confident of seeing off Japan and whichever of Costa Rica or New Zealand come through in June.
Japan may seek inspiration from neighbours South Korea however, who knocked the Germans out in 2018.
Group F
Belgium, Canada, Morocco, Croatia
Two of the semi-finalists from Russia in 2018 will come together in the group stages as Belgium and Croatia lock horns in Group F.
The pair will face off in the final group game and should either slip up in advance of that, we could well see one of the more fancied European sides going home.
Morocco impressed in 2018 without winning while Canada will face Belgium in their first World Cup match since 1986. They may just believe their fairytale run could continue into the knockout stages.
Group G
Brazil, Serbia, Switzerland, Cameroon
Another group that is almost a carbon copy from 2018 only this time Cameroon will take the place of Costa Rica.
Brazil came out on top on that occasion while Serbia and Switzerland played out a controversial clash that saw the Swiss come from behind to win 2-1 thanks to a late winner from Xherdan Shaqiri.
They will meet in the final group game which could essentially be a winner-takes-all clash.
Cameroon are not going to make up the numbers though and will make for dangerous opponents after their dramatic late win over Algeria to qualify.
Group H
Portugal, Ghana, Uruguay, South Korea
Uruguay will have the face up to the ghosts of World Cups past in Group H.
The South Americans knocked South Korea out in the last 16 in 2010 while they did the same to Portugal in Russia four years ago.
But the real battle for revenge will take place on matchday two when Ghana seek redemption after Luis Suarez and the handball controversy from the 2010 quarter-final.
This has the appearance of quite an open group and while Portugal will back themselves to win it, history has shown that they could just as easily finish bottom.
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Gabriel Martinelli has received his first call up to the Brazil national team for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Martinelli has represented Brazil at under 23 level and also at the Olympics last summer in Tokyo, where they won the gold medal.
The 20-year-old has played in 17 of Arsenal’s 25 league games this season and his recent form has helped the Gunners to move into the top four. He has scored five times and assisted his teammates twice, ranking him in fifth for direct goal contributions by Premier League players under the age of 21.
Compared to wingers and attacking midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues, Martinelli’s shooting statistics are quite impressive. He ranked in the 94th percentile for goals per shot on target and ranks in the 80th percentile or higher when considering goals, average shot distance, and expected goals.
Another quality that the winger possesses is his ability to press from the front and the energy at which he carries it out. He ranked in the 95th percentile for pressures carried out in the attacking third of the pitch, 81st percentile for tackles, and in the 89th percentile for shots blocked.
All these qualities were on show in Arsenal’s most recent game against Watford. Martinelli scored the third goal for the north London side after a brilliant one-touch move from his teammates.
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Despite most of the attacks coming down Arsenal’s right-hand side where Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka operated, Martinelli still had an impact apart from his goal. He completed over 86% of his passes, including one key pass, and won 75% of his ground duels.
The Brazilian is having his best goal-scoring season since joining the club in 2019. Manager Mikel Arteta praised Martinelli’s performances.
“Gabi’s playing a different position because Auba played more as a nine in his last few months. He certainly has the capacity to score goals and be a threat in the final third. His contribution and all-around game have been exceptional.”
Martinelli’s teammate Gabriel Magalhaes also received a call-up to the Brazil squad and showed his appreciation for the winger.
Brazil are set to face Chile and Bolivia in their upcoming qualifiers. They have already qualified for the 2022 World Cup but are yet to secure the top spot in the table, with Argentina only four points behind.
It is still unlikely that Martinelli will get any minutes in the two fixtures due to competition for places. The likes of Neymar, Antony, Raphinha, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo all received a call-up. Nevertheless, it will still be a good experience for the young Gunner.
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Chelsea won the FIFA Club World Cup Final in Abu Dhabi after defeating Brazilian side Palmeiras in extra-time.
The Champions of Europe followed up their narrow 1-0 defeat of Asian Champions Al Hilal in the semi-final with a similarly narrow 2-1 victory over South American Champions Palmeiras to win their first-ever Club World Cup.
Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku headed home for the English side early in the second half to give them the lead, however, that advantage was short-lived as the Brazilian side levelled less than 10 minutes later with Raphael Veiga converting a penalty following Thiago Silva’s handball.
The match looked destined to be decided by a penalty shootout until another penalty was awarded for handball, this time for Chelsea. Kai Havertz stepped up to score the decisive winner for the Blues with three minutes of extra-time to go.
It was the ninth consecutive time the UEFA Champions League winners lifted the FIFA Club World Cup. The last non-European victory came when Palmeiras’ Sao Paolo neighbours Corinthians defeated Chelsea 1-0 in Japan in December 2012.
However, despite Europe’s dominance in the tournament over the past decade, the popularity of the tournament is far higher in South America than in Europe.
This was highlighted by the fact that well over 10,000 Brazilian fans took the 15-hour flight from Brazil’s largest city to support their side compared to less than 3,000 Chelsea fans who had travelled half the distance from England.
As a further indication of how much the defeat meant to Palmeiras, riots broke out in Sao Paolo immediately following the match with one Palmeiras fan being shot dead outside their stadium where fans had gathered to watch the final on large TV screens.
Chelsea have little time to reflect on being able to hail themselves as newly crowned World Champions as the Club World Cup Final is the first of five matches in a row in different competitions. Up next is Crystal Palace away in the Premier League followed by a Round of 16 Champions League tie at home to Lille before two further domestic cup ties against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup Final and an away trip to Luton Town in the FA Cup.
Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt
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]]>In what was a catch-up window due to previous postponements because of the pandemic, several teams made the most of the winter action and took major steps towards participation in November’s World Cup.
None were more successful than Iran and South Korea, who became the 14th and 15th nations to qualify for the showcase event.
In CONCACAF, it was Canada who had the most successful window, claiming nine points to leave them on the brink of just a second-ever World Cup appearance.
Meanwhile in South America, it was more of a case of eliminations as what was a ten-team league is now ultimately down to five with Brazil and Argentina already having qualified and Paraguay, Bolivia and Venezuela all now out of contention.
Let us begin in Asia as we take a look back on another thrilling week of action.
AFC
It was in Tehran that Iran confirmed their qualification for a third consecutive World Cup. Porto forward Mehdi Taremi scored the winner in a 1-0 victory over Iraq to seal another finals appearance for Team Melli.
South Korea picked up a 1-0 win over Lebanon to leave themselves nicely poised before the second game of the window.
The UAE kept the South Korean’s honest with a 2-0 win at home to Syria to keep their own faint hopes alive.
Those hopes would be dashed just five days later however as South Korea booked their finals place with a 2-0 win over Syria in Dubai and maintains their record of appearing at every World Cup since 1986. Iran’s 1-0 triumph over the UAE rendered the result immaterial anyway as the Emirates could now no longer qualify automatically.
The Syrians are the only team in the group officially eliminated and responded by sacking coach Valeriu Tita. Iraq did similar, dismissing Serbian manager Zeljko Petrovic. They still hold faint hopes of a play-off despite failing to win a game so far. They must beat the UAE in their next game in March to stand any chance.
Over in Group B, there is a little bit more tension with none of the sides earning automatic qualification thus far. Matchday seven saw the top three all claim home victories over the lesser lights in the group with Australia thrashing Vietnam 4-0, Japan seeing off China 2-0 and leaders Saudi Arabia earning a narrow 1-0 win over Oman.
Matchday eight proved to be much more decisive, however. Takumi Minamino was on the scoresheet as Japan closed to the gap to within a point of the Saudis with a 2-0 home win.
This left the door open for Australia to join the Japanese and leave a one-point gap between all three sides. Graham Arnold’s men will be kicking themselves however for conceding a late equaliser to Oman in Muscat that saw two precious points dropped.
Australia will now need to beat Japan at home next up and most likely do the same in Saudi Arabia if they are to qualify without the need for a play-off. They do have that option to fall back on though as Oman are now eliminated.
Vietnam also picked up their first win of the campaign as they secured a 3-1 victory over China 3-1 in Hanoi.
CONCACAF
Canada are now just one win away from a first World Cup appearance since 1986 following three victories in a brilliant week.
‘Les Rouges’ began the window by defeating winless Honduras thanks to a goal from star striker Jonathan David. The traditional big two of the USA and Mexico kept up the pressure with wins over El Salvador and Jamaica respectively.
Bryan Ruiz grabbed the winner as Costa Rica aimed to move closer to a play-off spot by defeating Panama.
It would be in matchday 10 where John Herdman’s Canadian side would take the biggest strides. An early Cyle Larin goal sent them on their way to a vital 2-0 victory over the USA to leave the nation ecstatic and leave fans of the USMNT enraged.
Panama got back on track by edging out Jamaica while El Salvador piled the misery on Honduras with a 2-0 win.
Costa Rica held Mexico to a crucial goalless draw in an empty Azteca Stadium to claim what could be a huge point.
In the final matchday of the break, Canada’s match in San Salvador almost did not go ahead due to the El Salvador players threatening to strike over unpaid bonuses. The strike was averted and David claimed another goal to make it a memorable week for the Canadians.
It was also memorable for slightly different reasons in Minnesota as the USA claimed a 3-0 victory over Honduras in freezing conditions. Two Honduran players had to be treated for hypothermia while fans saw their beers freeze in the stadium. Perhaps more thinking is required for the federation next time when determining where to stage the games.
Raul Jimenez scored a penalty as Mexico beat Panama while Joel Campbell scored the only goal in Costa Rica’s victory in Jamaica. ‘Los Ticos’ are now just a point behind Panama following an excellent window as they chase a play-off match with the best team from Oceania.
For Canada, victory over the Costa Ricans in March will bring about the moment they have been waiting 36 years for. The USA and Mexico look poised to join them while it appears to be a straight shootout between Panama and Costa Rica.
CONMEBOL
Onto South America, where nobody has yet joined Brazil and Argentina but there were some eliminations taken care of.
Ecuador were probably the biggest victors of the window, guaranteeing themselves at least a play-off spot against the play-off winners from Asia thanks to two draws.
A bad-tempered clash with Brazil ended in a 1-1 draw while fellow confirmed finalists Argentina claimed a 2-1 triumph in Chile.
Edison Flores grabbed a vital late winner as Peru claimed a massive 1-0 win in Colombia to go fourth. Uruguay would keep the pressure on with a 1-0 win in Paraguay.
Salomon Rondon notched a hat-trick as Venezuela prolonged Bolivia’s wait for a first away victory since 1994 in the qualifiers.
It was all to play for then going into the second match of the window but this is where some dreams were sadly ended.
Philippe Coutinho scored a cracking goal as Brazil thrashed Paraguay 4-0 to end their hopes while Chile won 3-2 in Bolivia to leave Bolivia waiting another four years for an appearance on the biggest stage.
Luis Suarez became the top goalscorer in CONMEBOL qualifying history in Uruguay’s 4-1 win over Venezuela to ensure another elimination for the visitors. The hosts meanwhile stole a march on Peru and climbed into the automatic places following the Peruvian’s 1-1 draw with Ecuador.
The draw did at least deny Ecuador automatic qualification for now.
Lautaro Martinez scored the winner for Argentina which put a huge dent to Colombia’s chances of a third consecutive World Cup appearance.
It is all set up for a dramatic two matchdays in March as we find out who will join the traditional giants. Ecuador only need a win in Paraguay in their next game to ensure they join them. There are sure to be more twists and turns to come.
Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt
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