This article is a part of the Guardian’s Women’s World Cup 2023 Experts’ Network, a cooperation between probably the most easiest media organizations from the 32 international locations who certified. theguardian.com is operating previews from two international locations every day within the run-up to the match kicking off on 20 July.
Overview
Brazil enters the match nonetheless in search of their first global name. They had been crushed finalists in 2007 however have disillusioned since, falling on the quarter-final degree in 2011 and the final 16 in 2015 and 2019. But a brand new technology underneath Pia Sundhage are positive this time may also be other. Perhaps unencumbered via the power felt via earlier groups, this younger crew went unbeaten in claiming the 2022 Copa America, with their versatility a key asset. Antônia, Kathellen and Ary Borges, as an example, all performed in more than one positions. “I’m there for whatever she [Sundhage] needs,” mentioned Borges.
The staff not depend so closely at the mythical trio of Marta, Cristiane, and Formiga, with simplest Marta within the squad. The No 10 now acts as a supply of beef up and inspiration for the more youthful gamers and Sundhage ceaselessly makes some extent of praising the 37-year-old celebrity.
In 2019, Brazil arrived on the World Cup at the again of 9 consecutive defeats however their shape within the lead-up to this match has been a lot better. After going unbeaten for 10 video games in 2022, the staff had been spectacular towards England and Germany in April, dropping to the Lionesses on consequences after a resilient show within the Finalissima at Wembley and beating a robust German aspect 2–1 in Nuremberg. “We have taken big steps in these four years,” mentioned Sundhage. “We’ve brought in new players and I think we are in a good place.”