Brazil’s Pragmatic Shift Under Dunga: A Crisis of Identity?

Last night, Brazil delivered a performance that can only be described as uninspiring. The team appeared bereft of their trademark flair, a far cry from the footballing artistry that has historically defined the Seleção. Coach Carlos Dunga, however, stood by his team, remarking, “It’s normal after a long time off. You can’t have a perfect game. A lot of things we practised in training came out well, and we can do them even better. I liked how this team performed.”

While Dunga's defence of his players reflects his managerial loyalty, it underscores a deeper philosophical conundrum: is his pragmatic approach stifling Brazil’s footballing essence? 

Brazil’s Style: Freedom as a Core Philosophy 

For decades, Brazilian football has embodied creativity, improvisation, and joy—the samba style that has captured the imagination of fans worldwide. This style thrives on freedom, allowing players to express their individual brilliance within a fluid team structure. When granted this liberty, Brazil has consistently delivered breathtaking football, scripting moments of genius that have become etched in the annals of the sport. 

Under Dunga, however, that freedom appears restrained. His tenure has seen a gradual shift toward a safety-first mentality—a stark departure from Brazil’s natural instincts. While pragmatism has its place in modern football, particularly in high-stakes matches, it can never become the defining characteristic of a team so deeply rooted in expressive play. 

The Roots of Dunga’s Pragmatism 

This tactical conservatism isn’t entirely new. After Brazil’s humbling exit from the 2006 World Cup, Dunga initially adopted a pragmatic style during his first stint as coach (2006–2010). His emphasis on compactness and defensive solidity brought short-term results, but it alienated those who cherished Brazil’s free-flowing style - the outcome was disastrous in South Africa. 

In his current tenure, the shift became more pronounced after last year’s friendly against Austria. The Austrian midfield’s discipline exposed Brazil’s vulnerabilities, prompting Dunga to revert to an ultra-cautious approach. Since then, Brazil has often played as if haunted by their own past failures, scoring a goal and retreating into a defensive shell—a tactic more reminiscent of Italian catenaccio than the effervescent rhythms of Latin American football. 

Pragmatism: A Double-Edged Sword 

Pragmatism has its merits, as evidenced by Italy’s World Cup triumphs in the 1980s and 90s. Yet, it suits teams built around defensive organization and counterattacks, not a footballing culture steeped in artistry and panache. For Brazil, this approach feels like a square peg in a round hole. It clashes with the country’s footballing DNA, robbing the players of the spontaneity and expression that make them special. 

This tactical rigidity proved costly in the Copa América, where Brazil’s performances were tepid at best. Their inability to adapt or take risks was glaring, and Dunga’s safety-first philosophy only amplified the team’s shortcomings. 

Looking Ahead: The Road to Redemption 

As Brazil prepares for the World Cup qualifiers, the question looms large: how long can Dunga persist with this conservative style? While a balance between defensive discipline and attacking freedom is essential in modern football, tilting too far toward caution risks alienating fans and undermining the team’s strengths. 

Dunga’s insistence on pragmatism might stem from a desire for stability, but stability without inspiration is a hollow victory. Brazil’s greatest successes have come not from playing it safe but from embracing their unique footballing identity—unpredictable, vibrant, and utterly enthralling. 

To reclaim their glory, Brazil must rediscover their soul. Dunga has the tools at his disposal: a wealth of talent capable of dazzling the world. The onus is on him to strike the right balance and let the Selecaoo dance to the rhythm of their heritage. Anything less would be a disservice to the legacy of Brazilian football.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar