From Little Onion to National Icon: Everton’s Ascent from Maracanaú to Maracana

Every morning, millions of boys across Brazil tie their boots with dreams stitched into the laces. For many, football offers more than sport—it is a lifeline, a rare path to escape poverty, to uplift entire families. But of the multitude who dare to dream, only a precious few make it past the gates of obscurity. One of them is Everton Soares.

Today, he is lighting up the Copa América with Brazil. But in 2012, Everton was just a teenage boy from the dusty outskirts of Maracanaú, facing a choice that would define his life: a 3,800km move to the other end of the country to join Grêmio. It wasn’t the distance that rattled him—it was the prospect of leaving his girlfriend behind. Love, it seemed, tugged more fiercely at his heart than ambition.

It took a voice of experience to pull him back toward his future. Jorge Veras, then coach of the Fortaleza U17 team and a former idol at Grêmio, had recommended Everton to the southern club. But Everton hesitated. “He liked her very much,” Veras remembers. “He thought that if he went, he would lose her. He didn’t care much about his career.”

Veras framed the crossroads bluntly: “I told him the girl could wait—but Grêmio would not. Another boy would go, and that boy would be rich while he remained poor.” He even added a splash of humour: “If she won’t wait, you’ll find yourself a German or Italian girl.” Everton listened. And he left.

That decision, painful and brave, launched a transformation. Six years on, Everton—nicknamed Cebolinha (“Little Onion”) for his resemblance to a popular cartoon character—is no longer the quiet teen on a bike. He is a Libertadores champion, a national team starter, and Brazil’s rising star. His flair has drawn thunderous applause at the Copa América, particularly after his stunning goal in Brazil’s 5-0 demolition of Peru, which earned him “Man of the Match” honors and the loudest cheer in the stadium.

As Europe’s elite clubs circle—Manchester City, United, Bayern Munich, and Milan—there’s a growing sense that the boy from Brazil’s northeast is about to take another giant leap.

But Everton’s story isn’t merely about goals and glory. It’s about distance—literal and emotional—and the quiet resilience of a boy who often chose silence over swagger. Coaches recall a player who spoke with his feet, not his voice. “We didn’t see him joke or play much with the others,” Veras says. “He was very quiet. His business was to work.” Another coach, José Carlos Leite, adds: “He doesn’t talk. He sits in his place and doesn’t utter a word.”

This stoicism had deep roots. Growing up in a humble home in Maracanaú, Everton often cycled 6km each way just to train with local side Maracanã. “He was of few words, but always skilful,” recalls coach Márcio Caetano.

That talent eventually carried him to Fortaleza's U15s. But even then, opportunity didn't come easy. He was benched during a key tournament until his father intervened. Given one chance to prove himself, Everton scored three goals in 30 minutes. “It was a positive surprise,” says Veras.

His rise accelerated from there. At 16, he dazzled scouts during friendlies, scoring four goals across two matches against Ceará. “We asked the directors to sign him immediately,” Veras says. “There were many eyes on him.”

Among those watching were scouts from Grêmio. After Everton impressed against them in an Under-16 competition, they made their move. What stood out wasn’t just his speed or dribbling, but his attitude. “He could decide games,” says Francesco Barletta of Grêmio’s academy. “He was technically good, aggressive, and fearless.”

Yet, even after conquering the emotional barrier of leaving home, Everton faced another hardship: the cold. Porto Alegre’s winters were bitter, far from the tropical sun of Ceará. “He thought about giving up,” says coach André Jardine. “But we supported him.”

Everton made his senior debut in 2014 at just 18. From a benchwarmer, he blossomed into a critical figure at Grêmio, thanks in part to manager Renato Gaúcho, who refined his raw skills into a polished threat. In 2019, he netted nine goals in 19 games, including decisive strikes in the Copa Libertadores.

At the Copa América, Everton has continued to shine. With goals against Bolivia and Peru, he’s emerged as Brazil’s wildcard weapon—direct, daring, and joyful in style. “Everton is ready to play in Europe,” said veteran teammate Filipe Luís after his latest goal.

Yet before any move abroad, there’s one more challenge: the Copa América final at Rio’s iconic Maracanã. Brazil will face Peru once again. And leading the line will be Cebolinha—the quiet boy from Maracanaú, who used to pedal 6km for a shot at the game, now poised to carry the hopes of 200 million.

In every way, Everton’s journey has been a story of departures—leaving behind a girlfriend, a hometown, a climate, even anonymity. But each time he left something, he moved closer to becoming the player—and the person—he was meant to be.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Triumph and Tension: A Tactical Analysis of Brazil's 2019 Copa Amarica Campaign

Brazil’s triumph in the 2019 Copa América, a 9th title for the Selecao, came against the backdrop of considerable uncertainty. With Neymar’s untimely injury and the heightened pressure of being hosts, this victory was far from a foregone conclusion. Yet, despite these challenges, Brazil not only overcame their obstacles but showcased a blend of defensive solidity, tactical fluidity, and mental resilience that secured them the prestigious crown. This analysis seeks to delve deeper into the team’s performance, dissecting their strengths and weaknesses throughout the tournament.

The Defenders’ Dominance: A Record-Shattering Streak

The cornerstone of Brazil’s campaign was their defensive prowess. Tite’s men embarked on a remarkable journey to the final, setting a record as the first Brazil side in history to reach a major tournament final without conceding a single goal. This remarkable feat was not merely a statistical anomaly; it was a testament to a cohesive and disciplined defensive unit. The Brazil backline, marshalled by the experienced Thiago Silva and Marquinhos, displayed rare assurance and composure. Together with goalkeeper Alisson, who had a particularly notable quarterfinal performance against Paraguay, the defence exuded confidence, stifling opposition attacks with near-impervious consistency.

While the team’s defensive strategy was more resolute than previous incarnations, questions lingered over how this cohesion would evolve in the post-Silva, Alves, and Thiago era. The transition away from these stalwarts will pose one of the greatest challenges for Tite moving forward.

A Beautiful Blend of Goals: Artistry in Attack

Though Tite’s Brazil is not synonymous with the "Jogo Bonito" of yesteryear, they still managed to produce a series of stunning goals. The team’s hallmark was a fluid passing style in midfield that allowed for intricate interplay and exquisite long-range strikes. From individual bursts of brilliance to team-oriented sequences, Brazil's goals, especially in the knockout stages, were often works of art.

This tournament revealed Brazil’s ability to combine a pragmatic approach with moments of flair. Despite not being overwhelmingly dominant in terms of goal-scoring chances, they displayed clinical finishing and an ability to strike from a variety of angles, especially in crucial matches like the final against Peru. These goals were emblematic of a team that adapted to the flow of the game while never abandoning its roots in collective cohesion.

Mental Resilience: Strength in Adversity

One of the most notable qualities of Brazil’s performance was their mental fortitude. In past tournaments, Brazil's resolve had often been questioned, especially in the face of adversity. However, this Brazil side showed time and again that they had the collective mentality to see out tight matches. Whether it was Arthur’s sprint to snuff out a last-minute counterattack or Gabriel Jesus pushing through injury to torment Argentina’s defence, the players displayed an indomitable will to win.

This mental strength extended beyond individual efforts. As a collective, Brazil showed great discipline, especially when under pressure or a man down, refusing to retreat into defensive shells. The team's ability to maintain composure while maintaining an attacking intent was most evident in the final, where Everton Cebolinha’s cool finish and subsequent assist secured Brazil’s victory, proving that the team’s heart was just as crucial as its tactical nous.

Tactical Adaptations: Tite’s Mastery and Room for Growth

Tite's tactical evolution from the 2018 World Cup disappointment was evident in Brazil's approach to the Copa América. After he failed to adjust his lineup during the World Cup, Tite demonstrated a renewed pragmatism, making necessary alterations when the situation called for it. A notable tactical shift came after the first two group-stage matches, where Richarlison and David Neres were swapped for Gabriel Jesus and Everton Cebolinha, injecting the team with much-needed pace and width. This adjustment allowed the more senior Dani Alves to thrive in the attacking third while maintaining defensive integrity.

Additionally, Tite showed a deft touch in managing player fitness, particularly with Filipe Luís’ injury. His decision to maintain Alex Sandro as the primary left-back through the knockout stages demonstrated flexibility in selection, something not always evident in previous campaigns. However, while Tite’s tactical adaptability has improved, there remains work to be done in breaking down low-block defences. Brazil’s struggles against the likes of Venezuela and Paraguay highlighted the ongoing need for a creative spark in the final third—an issue that might necessitate the development of a player capable of unlocking such defences with incisive passing.

Flawed Stars: Individual Performances Under Scrutiny

As with any successful campaign, individual performances varied. While Alisson and Dani Alves shone brightly, others faced struggles in their roles. Casemiro, typically a rock in midfield, was occasionally caught out by pressure and struggled with distribution at times. His performance was far from disastrous but inconsistent, and his inability to impose himself in key moments could be a focal point for improvement. Fernandinho, too, displayed glimpses of his quality but was hampered by injury, limiting his influence.

Philippe Coutinho’s failure to truly step up in Neymar’s absence was perhaps one of the most glaring disappointments. Despite flashes of brilliance, his inability to dictate play or take control of the midfield in critical moments left a void that was often filled by the more dynamic but less consistent Arthur. Coutinho’s lack of a killer instinct and inability to cope with aggressive pressing left Brazil’s attack feeling disjointed at times.

On the attacking front, Roberto Firmino’s campaign was polarizing. While he contributed with two goals and several assists, his performances as a centre-forward raised more questions than answers. His lack of a physical presence in the box and inability to hold up the ball effectively in tight spaces hindered Brazil’s attacking fluidity. While Firmino’s technical skill and intelligence were evident in key moments, his struggles as a traditional striker revealed Brazil’s need for more assertiveness in the centre.

Gabriel Jesus, meanwhile, embodied the unpredictable nature of Brazil’s attacking unit. After a shaky start, his late performances in the knockout stages were heroic, capped by his two goals in the final. His energy, skill, and physicality were crucial in Brazil's success, even if his inconsistency at times made him a figure of both frustration and adulation. Jesus’ redemption arc underscored the narrative of a team that, despite moments of doubt, found a way to deliver.

Conclusion: Beyond the Trophy

Brazil’s 2019 Copa América triumph was not just a victory in the traditional sense—it was a statement of resilience, adaptability, and tactical evolution. Tite has built a team that knows how to win in different ways, balancing solid defence with moments of attacking brilliance. Yet, the challenges that lay ahead are considerable. Brazil’s reliance on a golden generation of defenders will soon wane, and the team will need to adapt once again to life without figures like Dani Alves and Thiago Silva. Furthermore, questions over how to break down resolute defences and whether the team can develop a true playmaker capable of unlocking such blocks will need to be addressed.

As the Selecao look towards the future, this victory offers both a sense of accomplishment and a platform for continued growth. The 9th Copa América title may be a crowning achievement, but it could very well be the first of many steps towards evolving the team into a true modern powerhouse.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Reflections on Messi’s Remarks: A Brazil Fan Responds

   

Dear Lionel Messi,

You once said, “We could have gone further but we weren't allowed into the final. Corruption, referees, and all the rest stopped people from enjoying the football.” You even added,“Brazil champions? No doubt. Sadly, I think it’s set up for Brazil.”

With due respect, I’d like to respond to both of your statements.

On Your Team's Performance

Firstly, let’s address your frustration about not reaching the final. Honestly, you were fortunate to even reach the semi-final given the underwhelming nature of your team. You and your squad pale in comparison to the Argentina teams led by legends like Gabriel Batistuta and Juan Román Riquelme. Back then, Brazil fans viewed Argentina with a sense of tension and respect because they were a team—a cohesive, well-rounded unit driven by purpose, not just a platform for individual brilliance.  

But the Argentina side you’ve led in recent years? It lacks the same collective identity. Your performances for the national team have often been criticized as underwhelming compared to your club career. And no, this is not just about bad luck or biased refereeing—sometimes, you need to accept that your side wasn't strong enough.

The Condor Plan and the 1978 World Cup Scandal 

Now, let's talk about corruption—since you brought it up. Have you considered the role Argentina played in the real controversies of the past?  

In the second round of the 1978 World Cup, Argentina, as the host, found itself in a tricky position. Brazil had beaten Poland 3-1 and Peru 3-0, meaning Argentina needed a 4-0 or 5-1 win over Peru to qualify for the final. But beating Peru by such a margin wasn’t realistic—at least, not without outside interference. 

This is where politics came into play. Dictator Jorge Videla, desperate to exploit Argentina’s potential triumph to cover up the atrocities of his regime, struck a deal with Peruvian leader Francisco Bermúdez. Videla offered asylum for 13 Peruvian prisoners, but only if Peru "deliberately lost" to Argentina.  

During the match, even Peru’s goalkeeper—a player of Argentine origin—made no real effort to stop the goals, allowing Argentina to win 6-0 and reach the final. Years later, in 2012, former Peruvian Senator Genaro Ledesma confirmed the existence of this sordid arrangement.  

Was that victory the product of sportsmanship, or political corruption?

The 1978 Pitch and Referee Bias 

You have also complained about the poor pitch conditions during the 2019 Copa América. Do you remember how Argentina treated Brazil in the 1978 World Cup? Brazil was forced to play its matches in Mar del Plata, on a substandard pitch that significantly hampered their gameplay. Brazil struggled to adapt and ended up drawing against Spain in one of those matches.  

And then there’s the 1978 incident involving Sweden, where Zico’s last-minute header was controversially ruled out after the referee ended the match abruptly, claiming time had expired. That decision robbed Brazil of the top spot in their group, forcing them into a tougher path. Was that fair? Or was it another example of Argentina manipulating events to its advantage?

FIFA and Your Group Stage "Luck"

Now, let’s address your insinuation about Brazil’s supposed “set-up” to win the Copa América. If we examine FIFA’s treatment of Argentina from 2010 to 2018, we see a pattern that raises questions. Argentina was placed in relatively favourable groups across three consecutive World Cups, always facing Nigeria. In both 2010 and 2014, your team had an easy path out of the group stage.  

But luck can only take you so far. In 2010, an overconfident Argentina underestimated a young German side and was humiliated 4-0. And in 2014, despite an easy route to the final, you were left hoping Germany would go easy on you. The Germans, as always, didn’t oblige.  

In 2018, Argentina was placed in a group with Croatia, Nigeria, and Iceland—hardly the strongest opposition. Yet, your team struggled, finishing second in the group. The French wasted no time in showing Argentina its limitations in the knockout stage.  

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo was consistently placed in tougher groups and faced greater challenges throughout these tournaments. Brazil, too, has suffered from controversial refereeing decisions—particularly at the 2018 World Cup and on home soil in 2014.  

Selective Memories and Double Standards

If we dig deeper, we could bring up several infamous incidents involving Argentina that cast doubt on your claim of unfair treatment.  

Hand of God: Diego Maradona's blatant handball against England in 1986 remains one of football’s most infamous moments.

The Holy Water Scandal: Argentine staff allegedly gave Brazilian players sedative-laced water during a Copa América match in 1990.  

Italia 1990: Maradona got away with a blatant handball inside his own penalty area against the Soviet Union. 

 

World Cup 1998: Diego Simeone’s theatrics led to David Beckham’s red card, changing the course of England’s campaign.  

2019 vs. Liverpool: Even you, Leo, were accused of placing the ball several meters ahead of the correct spot while taking a decisive free-kick at Camp Nou.

These incidents highlight that Argentina has benefited from questionable decisions on numerous occasions. To now complain about bias or corruption seems hypocritical at best.

In Conclusion: Think Before You Speak

Football, like life, is full of highs and lows. Every team experiences moments of triumph and injustice. But to claim that corruption robbed Argentina in recent tournaments without any concrete evidence is to ignore the privileges and benefits your team has enjoyed throughout history.  

Brazil has endured its share of setbacks and questionable decisions, but we’ve rarely resorted to making excuses. Instead, we’ve focused on rebuilding and striving to be better. You, Leo, are an exceptional player—but it’s time to acknowledge that even legends don’t always win.  

So, next time you feel the urge to point fingers, remember the past. Before accusing others, reflect on the privileges and questionable incidents that have benefited Argentina. And perhaps—just perhaps—you’ll find it wiser to let your football do the talking.

With respect and a love for the beautiful game,  

A Brazil Fan

Thank You

Faisal Caesar