World Cup Corner

One of the biggest rivalries in world football took to the field today. Regardless of who you support or where you live, few will disagree that Argentina vs. Brazil is always a special occasion. Especially with the small matter of being crowned the 2007 Copa America champions.
In the 14 years since Argentina has won a major trophy, their eternal rivals Brazil have clocked up a couple of World Cups, Intercontinental Cups and Copa Americas. Coco Basile (who won 2 copa Americas and serveral club titles with Boca Juniors) has been drafted to snap their losing streak.

On paper, the Argentinians have the superior squad, and their football thus far in the competition have been phenomenal. Brazil on the other hand, seems to have kept their insipid tactics from World Cup 2006. A few world class stars and the rest of the team supporting them.

While the Copa America has lost alot of it’s glamour in recent years, as evidenced by Brazil fielding a “weakened” squad, it is still a source of immense pride to be crowned champions. Especially if you can rub the noses of your bitterest rivals in the process.

Let’s move to Venezuela now for the 2007 Copa America final!
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Brazil have historically been considered the best footballing nation in the world, with a seemingly endless supply of world class players every generation, they have the mindset, almost divine right to the World Cup. Every tournament has the Brazillians pretty much the favorites. This speaks for itself.

But lately, there seems to be something about the way the current Brazillians play. It has been in effect since the 2006 World Cup. Just play the top stars (Kaka, Ronaldinho, Ronaldo) and load the team with the regular supporting cast and hope for the best. While individually still a joy to watch, there is another team that has overtaken the Brazillians by playing swashbuckling, passing and creative TEAM football.
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