Hours away before the South American battle between the two fierce rivals. I was about to say it was an encounter consisting of the heavyweights of South America, but sadly, Brazil no longer fit into that category. After their lubrication by Germany in their backyard, and an abject appearance at the Copa America, they have officially lost their title of "heavyweight" within South America.
However...there is still the little issue of Neymar to contend with, because despite Brazil being rancid, he will very easily be the best player on that pitch, and he is enough to win the game for the Samba boys.
There are few players today who are good enough to carry a team on their shoulders, and deliver them to the land of heroes all by themselves, pretty much. Robben is definitely one of them, and I would put Neymar in that category as well. Both players have shown for both club and country they can totally change the dynamic of the match based on what they are able to do on the pitch.
I'm expecting that thug known as Dunga to employ a defensive system, and use Neymar as a counter-attacking outlet. If Argentina play a more balanced game and do not play into Brazil's hands, then it will be difficult for this strategy to work. Neymar will only get true joy of Argentina smell blood and really push men forward and put pressure on Brazil, not allowing them to leave their own half with an intense pressing game. Then if Brazil through the superb Costa can get a ball out to Neymar, then he is good enough to make the right pass or use the space to create a goalscoring opportunity.
A part of me does not want to see this match, as it repulses me how Brazil now play under Dunga. But Neymar is one of my favorite players to watch right now. Even with the crap he has to contend with, he still manages to do amazing things with the ball and bring joy to this football lover. So, I will try and keep my hate of Dunga to a minimum and try to enjoy the talents of Neymar, Pastore, Costa and Dybala. If Brazil are to win, it will be all on the players and NOT on Dunga. I would rather drink a lifetime supply of sharks than give Dunga any credit whatsoever.
He can go &^%%$* himself.
HH
