Four and a half years later, the FIFA World Cup is back next week, and the stage is set for the first-ever edition in Middle East. Heading to Qatar with a strong squad and in better shape than its rivals, Brazil appears as the favourite to succeed France and end 20 years of suffering.

Two decades ago, Brazil was top of the world after whipping four European sides in the knockout stage of the World Cup in Japan. Since then, Germany (semi-final, 2014) and Belgium (quarter-final, 2018) have had their revenge, while two other European sides (France 2006 and Netherlands 2010) crushed the hope for Seleção to add a sixth star to their shirt. However, things now look different for Tite’s team as Brazil appears to land in Qatar with its strongest team since 2002.

A Brazil side stronger than ever?

Time flies, and from one season to another, the dynamic of each team and player could differ a lot. Would Brazil still be considered the favourite for the world cup if France had Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kanté fit? Probably not. But the reality is, as of now, most Brazilian players are in one of the greatest form of their careers while other selections have injuries or players that are a bit out of form.

One of the biggest assets of Brazil for the World Cup is undoubtedly the young offensive core, with players like Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr, Antony and Gabriel Martinelli all being 22-year-old or younger and already starters in the biggest clubs in the world. This young generation, representing the future of the Seleção will be surrounded by more experienced players like Neymar, which is arguably playing the best football of his career this season with PSG.

A tough knockout phase for Brazil?

The offensive power of the Brazilian squad could almost overshadow the weaknesses of their defence, which could be the biggest flaw of the Seleção during the World Cup. With ageing Alex Sandro, Danilo and Thiago Silva in the backline, lack of pace could be one of the biggest problems for Brazil, as it is what costs them in the Copa America final against Argentina last year (1-0).

Opposed to Serbia, Switzerland and Cameroon during the group stage, Brazil would be on the toughest side of the bracket should they top their group. The Seleção could have to face either Uruguay or Portugal as soon as the round of 16, before having the likes of Germany, Spain, Netherlands or even biggest rivals Argentina before the final.

At the crossroads between two generations, the Seleção could add a sixth star to their shirt if they find the right balance between their attacking mindset and defensive flaws, as they are heading to Qatar as the favourite. Next time could be too late for Neymar, which will want to thrive on his excellent start to the season to achieve his biggest dream, lift the world cup.