CAFU NAMES HIS ALL-TIME BRAZIL SQUAD

Former Brazil international Cafu has selected his all-time pick at the national level. He admitted that it was a tough one and some players would be left out as there was a limit. He started with the notion of keeping possession so he went with Paulo Roberto Falcao, Zico and Rivellino in the heart of his all-time Brazil XI.

In the choice of goalkeepers, despite the lot that the South American side has used over the years, he opted for Claudio Taffarel. Cafu explained that it was because of the “calm, smooth and peaceful” nature. The fact that the keeper played in three World Cups also helped.

The football legend chose Carlos Alberto and Roberto Carlos as fullbacks. He praised Alberto Torres for his leadership skill and Roberto Carlos for his balance of attack and defence. As expected, Roberto Carlos got extra points for the accuracy and power in his shots.

In the heart of the defence, Cafu named Lucio andAldair. While Lucio was the aggressive tackler, Aldair was more composed, with his positioning helping him against attackers.

Ahead of the defenders, Rivellino would be thrilling with his ‘elastico’ move while using dribbling to manage opponents. Zico would provide creative movement with his intelligent play and ability to read the game. His free-kick gift was another plus. Falcao was the excellent passer of the ball, with a lot of assists expected.

Rivaldo would then play behind Ronaldo El Phenomenon and the great Pele. The reasons for naming the attackers are obvious. The coach for Cafu’s all-time XI would then be Mario Zagallo.

The current crop preparing for Russia 2018 have Alisson of Roma in goal. Marcelo of Real Madrid or Felipe Luis of Atletico can play left-back. Marquinhos, Thiago Silva or Miranda can play in central capacity while Fagner plays right back. Fernandinho or Casemiro would play ahead of the defence with Philippe Coutinho, Fred and Willian in the midfield. Douglas Costa can play in the wings while star Neymar leads the attack with Gabriel Jesus as striker. The star studded side led by Tite is one of the favourites to win the tournament in Russia.