The finalizing of World Cup rosters doesn’t come until June 4 but after naming nine players to the tournament squad last month, Brazilian National team boss Luiz Scolari announced his complete 23-man team weeks ahead of the June 12 start date. Set to host the highly anticipated summer games for the first time since 1950, Brazil will release a team chock full of talent capable of putting together a strong run throughout the event. With 32 of the best international squads across the globe set to begin, Scolari feels confident in the club he’ll field once play opens in the competitive Group A.
While usual talents in defender David Luiz, midfielder Fernandinho and superstar scorer Neymar will make appearances, the 65-year-old boss left many top-level talents off the roster. Individuals including Kaka, Lucas Leiva, Rafael da Silva, Ronaldinho, Robinho and Philippe Coutinho will not feature for Brazil at this year’s World Cup but the scripted roster certainly doesn’t lack firepower. As he continues to grow into one of the most consistent and dominant players on the planet, former Santos and current Barcelona star Neymar is ready for the big challenge of representing his native team in front of their home crowd, something Scolari isn’t worried about.
“We know Neymar is good, he is a great player, a player that was involved in decisive plays against Real Madrid and Espanyol and in the last game against Atletico de Madrid too,” the Brazil coach said of the 22-year-old, who has recorded 15 goals and 11 assists in all matches this season playing alongside Argentine National star Lionel Messi. “He makes the difference, if he is considered the best in the world, it will be fair because he is very good.”
Brazil will begin its quest for a World Cup championship on June 12 against Group A opponent Croatia before entering contests against Mexico and Cameroon on June 17 and June 23 respectively.
2014 World Cup – Brazil 23-man Roster
Goalkeepers:
Julio César, Jefferson, Victor
Central Defenders:
Dante, David Luiz, Thiago Silva, Henrique, Dani Alves, Maicon, Marcelo, Maxwell
Midfielders:
Fernandinho, Hernanes, Luiz Gustavo, Oscar, Paulinho, Ramires, Willian
Attackers:
Bernard, Fred, Hulk, Jo, Neymar
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