Brazil
The story
A reborn Seleção under a new coaching staff have rediscovered swagger and now blend Vinícius Jr.'s individual brilliance with a midfield rebuilt around Bruno Guimarães.
How they got here
Sealed direct qualification on the final matchday after a wobbly middle stretch under new staff.
Expectations
Quarterfinals minimum. A fifth title would silence the noise of a frustrating decade.
Manager & key players
Group C
Upcoming matches
Latest news & commentary
updated daily- Aug 1Form
Brazil have lost just one of their last ten competitive fixtures heading into the tournament.
- Jul 30Injury
Vinícius Jr. trained without restriction on Tuesday and is expected to be available for the opener.
- Jul 28Tactics
Dorival Júnior has hinted at a tweaked back-three shape in training, freeing Vinícius Jr. into a roaming role.
- Jul 26Build-up
Brazil take on a friendly opponent at home next week — a final dress rehearsal before the tournament window opens.
- Jul 24Press
Local press has zeroed in on midfield balance — depth behind the regular starters remains the open question.