4. Contrasting styles of football
Brazil pride themselves on their philosophy of ‘Jogo Bonito’, and though some would say that the semi-final was hardly an exhibition of that, Brazil have played beautiful football in the early part of this tournament. Neymar has provided that imaginative spark, whereas full-backs Dani Alves and Marcelo have contributed to Brazil’s attacking flair with their speed on the flanks. Spain, on the other hand, will try to dominate possession and deprive Brazil of an opportunity to establish the tempo of the game. Their ‘tiki-taka’ style of football has proved superior over any other style over the last six years, and this will yet another test.
Edited by Staff Editor