Seriously Brazil play with more speed, variations, precision and less predictability without Ronaldiinho.
Kaka Robinho partnership is proving almost impossible to tie down. Their mobility is causing teams serious problems. Dunga made a master stroke leaving out Elano for a more stable defensive trio looking midfield. Allowing Kaka freedom to roam, his work rate and passing today was amazing.
Without present day Ronaldinho yes I totally agree- though in the friendly against Italy earlier this year Ronaldinho had them busy in the 1st 45 and Brazil was as fluid as ever (the 1st 45 of the match was the most Brazil has looked like Brazil in a very long time)....With Ronaldinho back to full fitness/sharpness I think Brazil would be as close to unstoppable as most nat'l teams get.
The Elano exclusion for Ramires is a good move too I agree. I'm not sure if it stabilizes the midfield defensively but I think Ramires is quicker on the counter attack (which appears to be Brazil's specialty) and a bit more difficult to defend against than Elano...On his day though, Elano scores big goals...and he plays a steady box to box role
Kaka Robinho is a deadly combo, but the unsung hero in that attacking combo is Luis Fabiano...He's not my favorite type of player to watch and he doesn't have the individual creativity of Robinho, but he has a sick eye for goal and his off the ball movement is tireless. Andre Santos is a nice lil left back too- good skill. I wonder if Marcelo can displace him...Marcelo looked to be getting good form toward the end of this season- thought that position was his.
Maicon is def better than Dani Alves overall as a player, but Alves' crossing ability is second to none...Maicon's crossing could use some work...If there's a way to have them on the field at the same time that would be a nightmare of a right side to defend against....
Felipe Melo is the new Rock in the middle- reminds me of Mauro Silva....Great baller winner with the touch of a creative middie when in possession...looks like he's cementing his position in the line up...
Brazil's biggest challenges in years to come look to be replacing the Lucio & Juan combo in the hole- They've been the twin towers there for sometime but they both getting up there in age (both in their 30's now)...Interested to see who will step in and if the transition will be seamless.
Also look for R9 Ronaldo to challenge for a WC2010 spot on the roster...I eh counting him out....
