Brazilian boys who are born in favellas, the slums of Brazil, don't live a comfortable life; they turn to soccer as a way to escape their poverty. Their first toy is a ball.

Living, breathing, and thinking soccer; never going anywhere without a ball. Inventing, re-inventing, and imitating their favourite players by blending their own flavourful, imaginative, creativity with the soccer-ball that sticks to their feet.

"It is a skill that is born in the favellas, where football becomes a way out. Many Brazilians in Europe still play a favella style of game, where it is as if their life is riding on the next 90 minutes." Adam Mc Lean, a freelance journalist said.

Young players from all over, but the talent that Brazil produces, overwhelms the chances of those other nations. What is the reason for the major European clubs to want to have a Brazilian on their roster?

"Brazil has always been a breeding ground for cheap talent, so it becomes a mad dash amongst European clubs to snag the next Brazilian stud." Mc Lean said "They garner high demand, because of their versatility and adaptability. Brazilians can play flamboyant, free flowing soccer, which is the world image of their Samba style, but they can also get stuck-in and tough-it-out in a chippy game"

"Historically, Brazil has produced a relatively large quantity of players who are very skilled in ball control, passing, and shooting" Mauro Prais, the owner and webmaster of the site http://www.netvasco.com.br/mauroprais/futbr/index_en .html.

"I believe it is their passion for football that separates them... It is a passion unlike any other around the globe. Football is more than religion; it is a way of life and nobody looks like they are having as much fun playing" Mc Lean said. "

Brazilian players are technically sound and inhabit a mesmerizing arson of poetic skilful tricks that will surely make you sit on the edge of your seat.

"It definitely adds to a different style of play. Europe has been in the grips of a 'defence wins championships' mentality after Greece won the Euro's and Italy won the World Cup Brazilian defenders are capable backliners, who can jump start a counter attack and are good on the ball." Mc Lean states.

Current Brazilians have dreamed to play in big European clubs since they were kids playing on the streets or beaches, one day to play for world renowned teams. How come they have the desire to play over in Europe?

"Money, fame, fortune, to play at the

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about Why Brazilians often become soccer superstars in Europe?
We want to hear your view. Write now!