2006 WORLD CUP TEAMS
Brazil at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany
The problems experienced in qualifying for the FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan 2002 soon became a distant memory for mighty Brazil as they powered to their fifth FIFA World Cup triumph.
The Seleção followed that up with success in the 2004 Copa America and the following summer’s FIFA Confederations Cup and also came out on top in the South American qualifying group for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.
That clean sweep sees the Brazilians in good stead as they gear up for the defense of their world crown.
Having seemingly banished the ghosts of 2001 for good, the Brazilians are rightly installed as favorites for every tournament in which they take part. The five-goal drubbing they meted out to Chile to qualify for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany only served to heighten expectations among their adoring fans, and no wonder.
Carlos Alberto Parreira’s star-studded squad, an exciting blend of raw talent and valuable experience, is the envy of world football. Just to complete the picture, Brazil are the only team on planet football to have qualified for every single FIFA World Cup.
Despite having to come through qualifying to defend their crown – the first holders to enjoy this dubious distinction – Brazil amassed some very impressive statistics. In claiming top place in the group they scored more goals than any of their rivals (35), had the second meanest defence (17 goals conceded), remained unbeaten at home, and also boasted the group’s top scorer (Ronaldo, with ten goals).
The biggest blemish during their campaign was a defeat against Argentina in Buenos Aires, although the four-goal hiding they subsequently gave their arch-rivals in the final of the FIFA Confederations Cup, and the fact they pinched top spot in the South America group on the final matchday, soon made up for that disappointment. Brazil finished with 34 points – four more than they picked up last time around – recording nine wins, seven draws and just two defeats.
For more on Argentina, and the 2006 FIFA World Cup, visit Footy Football today.
Odds to win the 2006 FIFA World Cup: 11/5
Brazil’s Stage of Elimination at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany
Brazil’s Top Scorer at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany
Brazil’s Total Points at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in German
