1 of 2

Write now Article Tools

Three wins from three outings. That is Brazil's record this year heading into their 2010 Fifa World Cup qualifying fixtures this month. Admittedly they were friendly internationals, yet confidence must be improving following a mediocre opening to the campaign last year, which boasted only two wins and two draws.
A Robinho strike was the difference in Brazil's 0-1 victory over Ireland at Croke Park on February 7, before Alexandre Pato struck seven weeks later to overcome Sweden at the Emirates by the same score line. But there is still obvious work to be done in the defensive areas, as Brazil conceded two-goals against a weak Canadian side on May 29. Diego, Luis Fabiano and Robinho were all on target to prevent an upset of epic proportions.

But the important matches are about to begin. First up enter Paraguay a team that currently top the group with three wins and a draw. Brazil has not faced them since the 2006 World Cup qualifiers, when the South American giants emerged 4-1 victors courtesy of two Ronaldinho penalties. But if one thinks back to 2004, it was Paraguay that caused an upset, running out 2-1 winners in the Copa America Cup. It is a tie that Brazil should not take lightly.
Soccer fans around the world will be licking their lips at the idea of the next tie, where international rivalry will be renewed to the highest level, when Brazil take on Argentina on June 18. Rather interestingly, Brazil have thumped their neighbors by a three-goal deficit in their last three encounters, the most recent in 2007's Copa America Cup final. Argentina still hold the group advantage by a single point, but will be troubled in this away fixture.
A ten-week break from competitive football will ensue, before Brazil will be involved in two relatively easier matches in September. The first match scheduled for June 6 will see Brazil take on Chile, a team that have not beaten them in 15 years.
Three-days later it will be Bolivia's turn, a side stuck firmly at the bottom of the table. They managed a 1-1 draw three years ago, but it is necessary to look right back to 1979 to find the last time they beat Brazil.
October will be Brazil's last competitive month of football, again with two matches. On October 11, they will clash with Venezuela, a nation that has never beaten Brazil. Rounding off the year will be a clash with Columbia, who are level on points with Brazil, but have a four goal difference to make up.
If history is to repeat itself, fans could be looking at a dull occasion, with both sides being dead-locked in a goalless draw in their two most recent fixtures. The latest match was held back in October for the same qualifiers, but perhaps Brazil's home advantage in the forthcoming encounter will give them the edge.

Learn more about this author, Gordon Alexander.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Brazilian soccer 2008?
We want to hear your view. Write now!