Brazil enter the tournament still searching for their first world title. They were beaten finalists in 2007 but have disappointed since, falling at the quarter-final stage in 2011 and the last 16 in 2015 and 2019. But a new generation under Pia Sundhage are optimistic this time can be different. Perhaps unencumbered by the pressure felt by previous teams, this young group went unbeaten in claiming the 2022 Copa América, with their versatility a key asset. Antônia, Kathellen and Ary Borges, for example, all played in multiple positions. “I’m there for whatever she [Sundhage] needs,” said Borges.
The team no longer rely so heavily on the legendary trio of Marta, Cristiane, and Formiga, with only Marta in the squad. The No 10 now acts as a source of support and inspiration for the younger players and Sundhage often makes a point of praising the 37-year-old superstar.
In 2019, Brazil arrived at the World Cup on the back of nine consecutive defeats but their form in the lead-up to this tournament has been much better. After going unbeaten for 10 games in 2022, the team were impressive against England and Germany in April, losing to the Lionesses on penalties after a resilient display in the Finalissima at Wembley and beating a strong German side 2-1 in Nuremberg. “We have taken big steps in these four years,” said Sundhage. “We’ve brought in new players and I think we are in a good place.”