FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
Ahead of the match with Japan, Brazilian fans and some of the media are already talking about the road to the final, while attention also remains on Endrick and the high expectations for the 19-year-old talent...
In Brazil, the most frequently asked question is: what time will the final be played on July 19? Although the Brazilian national team plays its knockout match against Japan today, fans and some media outlets have turned their attention to the upcoming stages of the tournament.
Brazil could face Norway in the round of 16 if the Norwegians win over Ivory Coast, according to predictions. This would set up the much-anticipated clash between Vinicius Junior and Erling Haaland.
Furthermore, bookmakers predict that in the quarterfinals, the team led by Carlo Ancelotti could face Thomas Tuchel's England, which is considered a favorite against the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mexico and Ecuador.
If this scenario comes to fruition, the semi-final could be reserved for the world football classic, Brazil-Argentina. According to these projections, Argentina is seen as the favorite to advance past a group of rivals that includes Cape Verde, Australia, Egypt, Switzerland, Algeria, Colombia and Ghana.
As for the final, the possibilities remain open, with France among the main contenders. For many, this discussion resembles a fantasy game, but it reflects the enthusiasm surrounding the Brazilian national team before the first direct elimination challenge.
Meanwhile, Japan, led by Hajime Moriyasu, has received less attention in the Brazilian media. So far, more has been said about the discipline and habit of Japanese footballers to leave the locker room clean than about the quality and dangerousness of the team on the field.
Another topic that dominated the debates is Endrick. The 19-year-old striker has only played 34 minutes in the tournament, but continues to be at the center of advertising campaigns and social networks, as one of the symbols of the Selecao's future.
Endrick is the face of several advertising campaigns and has signed multi-million dollar contracts with various companies. Japanese manufacturer Nissan has also introduced a promotional license plate with the inscription "Endrick 19", the number he wears on his jersey, accompanied by the slogan: "Would you like to see him run on the streets?". Meanwhile, clothing company C&A has launched a line of sports shirts with the image of the footballer.
Brazilian football lives with its eyes on the future, but continues to be fueled by memories of the past. Neymar, now 34, remains a beloved figure for fans, while Ronaldinho, at 47, has returned to the pitch with Italian club Ravenna.
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