Brazil’s thrashing of Peru: A Statement of Intent

At the Mane Garrincha stadium in Brasília, Brazil delivered a 4-0 rout of Peru that was more than just a victory it was a bold declaration. With this win, the Seleção not only registered back-to-back triumphs in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers but also gained much-needed momentum after some uneven performances earlier in the campaign.

Though Brazil remains in fourth place with 16 points—level with Uruguay and trailing Argentina by six - this victory radiated promise. For a team seeking to restore its former glory, the emphatic display against Peru seemed like a step in the right direction, a night where ambition met execution. Meanwhile, Peru’s struggles deepen, their six points leaving them second to last, perilously close to elimination from the qualifying race.

 A Cautious Beginning 

The first half was a slow dance between two sides still figuring out their rhythm. Brazil controlled possession and crafted a handful of opportunities, but the spark was missing. Peru, hesitant yet organized, tried to keep their defence intact. The closest they came to disrupting the script was when Edison Flores found the net in the 11th minute, only for his effort to be rightfully ruled offside. It was a rare warning shot from the visitors, who otherwise posed no real threat—zero shots on target in the first half told their story.

Brazil, despite moments of lethargy, grew into the game. Raphinha rattled the crossbar in the 23rd minute, a precursor to what was to come. The breakthrough arrived in the 37th minute, courtesy of a penalty awarded after a handball by Carlos Zambrano. Raphinha stepped up with ice-cold composure to convert the spot-kick, and the floodgates began to creak open. 

 Brazil Finds Its Groove 

The second half was an entirely different affair. With the early jitters gone, Brazil rediscovered its swagger, turning the game into a one-sided spectacle. Speed and precision emerged on the wings, and their intent became clearer with every passing minute. Just eight minutes after the restart, Raphinha doubled his tally with another penalty, cementing his influence on the match.

Now, the Brazilian engine was purring. The match’s highlight came in the 70th minute when Andreas Pereira volleyed in a stunning strike, a goal that felt like poetry in motion—a perfect synthesis of control and flair. And before Peru could recover, Luiz Henrique struck again in the 73rd minute, delivering the final blow and sealing the 4-0 victory.

 A Timely Reminder

Brazil’s dominance in the second half was as much a mental shift as it was tactical. They attempted 13 shots in the last 45 minutes, nearly three times their first-half output. It wasn’t just the number of attempts - the renewed intensity, the sense that every pass and run carried purpose. The national team looked, at last, like it had broken free from the malaise that haunted its earlier performances in the qualifiers.

This win, however, is not merely a statistic or a morale booster. It’s a glimpse of what this squad could become when it plays without hesitation - when it believes in its own potential. There’s still a long road ahead, and Argentina’s lead remains daunting, but this performance whispered possibilities.

The Road Forward

Consistency will be the true measure of Brazil’s resurgence. They must carry this verve into every match to challenge Argentina and Uruguay at the top of the table. There is little room for complacency in the relentless world of South American qualifiers, where form ebbs and flows as unpredictably as the Amazon’s rivers.

For now, though, Brazil can savour the night - a night when they rediscovered not just their winning ways, but also a bit of their soul. Amid the turbulence of qualification campaigns, this victory against Peru is a reminder: that Brazil is still capable of brilliance when it chooses to believe.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Brazil's Composed Victory Over Peru: A Testament to Control and Creativity

In the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers, Brazil’s clash with Peru was a reflection of the modern footballing landscape—a game where tradition and pedigree no longer guarantee dominance. Brazil, despite their illustrious history, is no stranger to the unpredictability of contemporary international football, where lower-ranked teams often punch above their weight. Against Peru, however, the Selecão showcased a measured performance, securing a 2-0 victory to maintain their unblemished record in the qualifiers.  

Tactical Tweaks and Early Exchanges 

Brazil made three notable changes to their lineup, emphasizing tactical flexibility. Veríssimo replaced Marquinhos in central defence, Gerson was preferred to Bruno Guimarães in midfield, and Everton Ribeiro stepped in for Vinícius Júnior on the left flank. These adjustments, though minor on paper, reflected Tite's intent to inject freshness and balance into the side. 

Peru, too, made a solitary change, with Christofer Gonzales replacing Edison Flores in midfield. The visitors began with intent, pressing high and winning an early corner, but their lack of precision in set pieces betrayed their ambition. Brazil, in contrast, began to assert themselves through quick transitions and incisive passing, with Neymar orchestrating from the left. 

Neymar: The Catalyst 

The game’s opening goal in the 14th minute encapsulated Neymar’s brilliance and Brazil’s attacking fluidity. Winning the ball high on the left flank—amid Peruvian protests of a foul—Neymar drove forward with intent before delivering a pinpoint low cross into the box. Everton Ribeiro, arriving at the back post, applied the simplest of finishes. 

The controversy surrounding Neymar’s challenge on Santamaría, which led to the turnover, was reviewed by VAR but upheld. This decision highlighted the fine margins in modern football, where moments of individual brilliance often blur the lines between aggression and creativity. 

Brazil’s First-Half Dominance 

Brazil’s second goal, arriving just before halftime, was another testament to their control. Ribeiro’s deflected shot fell kindly to Neymar, who coolly slotted home his 69th international goal. It was a moment of composure amidst chaos, further cementing Neymar’s status as Brazil’s creative fulcrum. 

Peru, meanwhile, struggled to cope with Brazil’s tempo. Their defence was stretched by Neymar’s probing runs and Gabriel’s clever movement, while their midfield failed to impose itself against Brazil’s quick passing triangles. 

A Second Half of Consolidation 

The second half saw a more subdued Brazil, content to manage their lead while probing for opportunities to extend it. Neymar, ever the showman, attempted an audacious overhead kick and a dazzling solo run that nearly set up Gabriel for a third. Despite these flashes of brilliance, the hosts prioritized defensive solidity, with Éder Militão excelling at the back. 

Peru’s attempts to claw back into the game were largely speculative. André Carrillo’s long-range effort and a drive from Flores represented their best chances, but both were comfortably dealt with by Brazil’s defence. Gareca’s side, lacking cohesion and cutting edge, were left to rue their inability to test Weverton in goal. 

A Controlled Performance 

While the match lacked the fireworks of Brazil’s storied encounters, it was a professional and disciplined display. Eight yellow cards and two contentious penalty appeals underscored the game’s physicality, but Brazil never appeared in danger of losing control. 

Militão’s commanding presence at the back, combined with Neymar’s creativity and Ribeiro’s opportunism, ensured Brazil remained firmly in command. The introduction of Hulk in the closing stages added a spark, though his missed opportunity to seal the game highlighted the occasional profligacy in Brazil’s finishing. 

Reflections and Implications 

For Brazil, this victory was less about flair and more about pragmatism. It demonstrated their ability to adapt and control games, even when the opposition sought to disrupt their rhythm. Neymar’s influence, both as a creator and a finisher, was pivotal, while the team’s defensive organization provided a solid foundation. 

Peru, on the other hand, will need to regroup. Their lack of incisiveness in attack and defensive lapses against Brazil’s relentless pressure exposed gaps that Gareca must address. Sitting seventh in the standings, their hopes of qualification hinge on finding consistency in the remaining fixtures. 

As Brazil march on with a perfect record, their performance against Peru serves as a reminder that in modern football, dominance is achieved not just through brilliance but through balance and discipline. The Selecão, while perhaps no longer invincible, remain a force capable of blending the artistry of their heritage with the pragmatism of the present.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Brazil Narrowly Edge Peru to Reach Copa America Final

In a rematch of the 2019 Copa America final, Brazil once again emerged victorious over Peru, albeit in a far more scrappy and hard-fought encounter. While the Selecao lifted the title in emphatic style two years ago, this semifinal clash tested their mettle, requiring a solitary goal from Lucas Paquetá to secure their place in the final.

Peru's Quest for Revenge

Peru entered the match with revenge on their minds, having fallen to Brazil in the 2019 final. Their path to the semifinals was anything but straightforward, requiring penalties to edge past Paraguay in the quarterfinals. Miguel Trauco’s composure from the spot proved decisive, but the team knew a flawless performance would be necessary to overcome Brazil’s formidable lineup.

The absence of Andre Carrillo, suspended after his red card against Paraguay, forced a tactical reshuffle. Alexander Callens was introduced into the backline, allowing Christian Cueva to take on a more advanced role behind Gianluca Lapadula, who spearheaded the Peruvian attack.

Brazil's Tactical Adjustments

Brazil, on the other hand, made two changes from their victory over Chile. Gabriel Jesus’ suspension saw Lucas Paquetá step into the starting lineup, while Everton replaced Roberto Firmino in the final third. Having dominated Peru in the group stage with a resounding victory, Brazil entered the match as heavy favourites, boasting a record of 35 wins in 49 meetings between the two sides.

A Wasteful First Half

Brazil began the game brightly, creating a flurry of chances but failing to convert. Lucas Paquetá’s incisive pass set up Richarlison in the box, who worked the ball back to Neymar. However, Neymar’s first-time effort rolled wide of the post. Moments later, Casemiro’s powerful strike forced a fumble from Gallese, but the Peruvian keeper recovered in time to deny Everton.

Gallese proved to be Peru’s saviour in the first half, producing a string of fine saves. He parried Casemiro’s long-range blast, denied Neymar at point-blank range, and diverted a rebound effort from Richarlison. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities, Brazil’s profligacy kept the game goalless for much of the half.

Paquetá Breaks the Deadlock

The breakthrough finally came in the 35th minute. Neymar, orchestrating Brazil’s attack with flair and precision, weaved past two defenders with a deft flick before finding Paquetá in space. Despite a slight bobble, Paquetá adjusted expertly and hammered his left-footed strike past Gallese, giving Brazil the lead they deserved.

Brazil could have doubled their advantage before halftime, but Renan Lodi’s header from Everton’s cross drifted harmlessly wide. The first half ended with Brazil in control, though their inability to capitalize on chances left the door ajar for a Peruvian comeback.

A Resilient Peru Push Back

After the break, Brazil surprisingly shifted to a more defensive posture, inviting pressure from Peru. Lapadula nearly capitalized on a through ball from Yotun, cutting inside to fire a shot towards the bottom corner. Ederson’s diving save preserved Brazil’s lead, showcasing the keeper’s alertness.

Christian Cueva’s creativity caused problems for Brazil’s defence, as he bundled through challenges to set up chances for his teammates. Garcia’s long-range efforts tested Ederson, who parried one attempt dangerously into the box before Marquinhos cleared the danger.

With ten minutes remaining, Callens had a golden opportunity to equalize. Rising unmarked to meet Yotun’s cross, the defender could only glance his header wide, spurning Peru’s best chance of the match.

Neymar’s Influence and Brazil’s Prospects

Neymar was instrumental throughout the game, dictating play from midfield and the attacking third. His creativity and vision were pivotal, but Brazil’s reliance on their talisman raises questions about their overall cohesion. If the Selecao are to lift their tenth Copa America title, they will need to elevate their collective performance and capitalize on their chances more effectively.

For Peru, the journey ends with pride in their resilience and determination. As for Brazil, the focus now shifts to the final, where sterner tests await in their quest for continental glory.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Brazil’s Dazzling Display: A Lesson in Supremacy

The Estádio Nilton Santos bore witness to a masterclass of football as Brazil dismantled Peru in a scintillating 4-0 victory during the Copa América group stage. For the Selecão, this wasn’t merely a win—it was a statement of intent. 

Two years ago, these teams clashed in the final at the Maracanã, where Brazil triumphed. The stakes were different this time, but the outcome was strikingly similar. Brazil’s dominance extended their winning streak to nine matches across all competitions, maintaining an impressive six consecutive clean sheets. 

A Clash of Momentum 

Peru entered the match under a shadow of inconsistency, losing four of their last five outings, though a narrow 2-1 victory over Ecuador offered a glimmer of hope. For Ricardo Gareca’s side, the encounter against Brazil was as much a test of character as it was of tactics. Yet, despite fielding an experienced lineup boasting 521 caps, La Blanquirroja found themselves outclassed by a Brazilian side that exuded confidence and precision. 

Tite’s squad, fresh from a 3-0 victory over Venezuela, featured six changes, highlighting Brazil’s enviable depth. Ederson replaced Alisson in goal, while Thiago Silva and Alex Sandro bolstered the backline. Casemiro and Everton Ribeiro added fresh energy to the midfield, and Gabriel Barbosa earned a start after his goal-scoring exploits in the opener. 

A Measured Beginning 

The match began with Peru enjoying more possession, a deceptive narrative that belied Brazil’s control. In the 12th minute, Alex Sandro opened the scoring with a thunderous strike after a clever layoff from Gabriel Jesus. It was a goal that epitomized Brazil’s efficiency—an incisive move that punished Peru’s defensive lapse. 

Despite holding the ball for longer periods, Peru struggled to convert possession into meaningful opportunities. Brazil’s defensive organization, marshalled by Silva and Éder Militão, ensured that Ederson’s goal remained unthreatened throughout the first half. 

Neymar Awakens 

The second half was a different story. Brazil emerged with renewed purpose, showcasing the attacking flair that has long defined their footballing identity. Tite’s substitutions—introducing Richarlison and Everton Ribeiro—infused fresh dynamism into the side. 

Neymar, who had been relatively subdued in the opening hour, sprang to life. After a VAR intervention denied him a penalty, the Paris Saint-Germain star produced a moment of brilliance. Receiving a pass from Fred, Neymar turned deftly, creating space against Ramos before unleashing a low-driven shot into the far corner. It was a goal of sheer class, reaffirming his status as Brazil’s talisman. 

A Symphony of Precision 

Brazil’s third goal was a testament to their artistry. A fluid passing sequence culminated in Richarlison delivering a perfectly weighted cross for Everton Ribeiro, who slotted home with composure. The move was quintessential Brazil—intricate, purposeful, and devastatingly effective. 

Richarlison added the final flourish, demonstrating persistence and opportunism. After his initial effort was saved by Gallese, the Everton forward scored while lying on the ground, a symbolic representation of Brazil’s relentless pursuit of excellence. 

A Dominant Force 

With six points from two matches, Brazil sit comfortably atop Group B. Their performances have been a blend of defensive solidity, midfield control, and attacking ingenuity. The team’s ability to adapt, as evidenced by Tite’s tactical tweaks, underscores their credentials as tournament favourites. 

Peru, meanwhile, faces an uphill battle to qualify for the knockout stages. Despite moments of promise, they were unable to match Brazil’s tempo or creativity. 

Looking Ahead 

Brazil’s next test comes against second-placed Colombia, a fixture that promises intrigue and intensity. With their sights firmly set on the Copa América trophy, the Selecão are a team in full flight, embodying the spirit of their footballing heritage while embracing the demands of the modern game. 

For now, Brazil’s brilliance shines undimmed, a beacon of excellence in a tournament that has already seen them rise above the rest. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Neymar’s Masterclass in Lima: A Hat-Trick of Brilliance

 

“Neymar will become the top goalscorer in Brazil’s history, surpassing Pelé. It wouldn’t hurt if Neymar leapfrogged me on the list. I left my mark on history, and now it’s his turn.”

– Romário

The South American World Cup Qualifiers are a spectacle unlike any other in football. They are an intoxicating blend of artistry, unpredictability, and raw intensity. The atmosphere is often suffocating, the opponents as diverse as the continent itself, each presenting unique challenges. It is football in its most visceral form—a cocktail of grit and flair, where the beautiful game is both celebrated and contested with unrelenting passion. 

Brazil, the perennial masters of this craft, began their campaign in São Paulo with a commanding win against Bolivia. But as they stepped into the lion’s den of Lima, they faced a different beast altogether. Peru, with their characteristic grit and tactical discipline, forced the Seleção to dig deep into their reserves of skill, composure, and determination. 

A Battle in Lima 

Peru’s recent history against Brazil has been one of near-misses and valiant efforts. Their loss in the 2019 Copa América final at the Maracanã still lingers in memory, as does their 1-0 friendly win in Lima later that year. Under Ricardo Gareca, Peru has emerged as a team that, while lacking the star power of their Brazilian counterparts, compensates with sheer tenacity and tactical acumen. 

Even with COVID-19 setbacks sidelining key players like Raúl Ruidíaz and Alex Valera, Peru entered this match determined to unsettle Brazil. And they did just that, opening the scoring in the sixth minute. André Carrillo’s sublime volley punished a wayward clearance from Marquinhos, silencing the Brazilian contingent and igniting hopes of an upset. 

But Brazil had Neymar. 

Neymar: The Evolution of a Leader 

The Neymar of today is a far cry from the exuberant yet erratic prodigy who burst onto the scene at Santos. He has matured into a player who not only dazzles with his skills but also leads with purpose. The transformation has been gradual, shaped by highs and lows at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. At PSG, Neymar found the freedom to express himself, and in doing so, he has grown into a player who carries the weight of expectations with grace. 

Against Peru, Neymar’s evolution was on full display. He was the creative fulcrum, the orchestrator, and the finisher. His ability to adapt to the flow of the game—dropping deep to link play, cutting inside to exploit space, or staying central to lead the attack—was a testament to his footballing intelligence. 

The Ney-trick 

Neymar’s first goal came in the 28th minute from the penalty spot, drawing Brazil level after Roberto Firmino had been denied earlier by a brilliant save from Pedro Gallese. With that goal, Neymar equalled Ronaldo’s tally of 62 international goals, a milestone that seemed inevitable yet remarkable. 

Peru, undeterred, reclaimed the lead in the second half through a deflected Tapia volley. But Brazil, driven by Neymar’s relentless creativity, struck back quickly. Richarlison bundled in a scrappy equalizer following a Firmino header, setting the stage for Neymar’s grand finale. 

As the match wore on, Peru’s physical approach began to unravel. A clumsy foul on Everton Soares in the box handed Neymar his second penalty, which he calmly converted to give Brazil the lead in the 83rd minute. With Peru reduced to ten men after Zambrano’s red card, Neymar completed his hat-trick in stoppage time, pouncing on a rebound after Everton hit the post. 

The celebration was a poignant tribute: Neymar mimicked Ronaldo’s iconic finger-wagging gesture, acknowledging the legend whose record he had just surpassed. 

A Legacy in the Making 

Neymar’s hat-trick in Lima was more than a personal triumph; it was a statement of his enduring brilliance and leadership. His performance painted the Peruvian capital yellow, a reminder of Brazil’s supremacy in South American football. 

Zinedine Zidane once remarked, “Some people like his style, others don’t... but the way he plays certainly brings a lot of spectacles.” Diego Forlán, too, predicted Neymar’s rise, saying, “He’s going to get better, and I suspect he’ll be the best in the world in a few years.” 

Both statements ring true. Neymar has evolved into a player who transcends criticism, a maestro whose artistry on the pitch is matched by his ability to inspire those around him. 

Brazil’s Road Ahead 

The victory in Lima was not just about Neymar’s heroics. It was a testament to Brazil’s resilience and adaptability under Tite. While the team showed vulnerabilities, particularly in defence, their ability to respond to adversity with creativity and aggression underscores their potential to dominate the qualifiers. 

For Neymar, the journey is far from over. With Pelé’s record within reach, the boy from Santos is poised to etch his name even deeper into footballing history. As Romário aptly put it, “I left my mark on history, and now it’s his turn.” 

And Neymar is making the most of it, one magical performance at a time.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Triumph Over Adversity: Peru’s Remarkable Journey in the 1970 FIFA World Cup

The road to the FIFA World Cup is never smooth, and for Peru, the path to the 1970 tournament in Mexico was fraught with challenges that tested their resilience, skill, and character. From controversial qualifiers to a devastating national tragedy, Peru’s story is one of triumph over adversity, culminating in a performance that captured the hearts of football fans worldwide. 

The Grueling Path to Qualification

The CONMEBOL qualifiers for the 1970 World Cup were as fierce as they were unforgiving. With 10 South American teams divided into three groups, only the group winners would earn a coveted spot at football’s grandest stage. 

In Group 1, Peru faced formidable opposition from Argentina and Bolivia. The stakes were high, and the journey would be anything but fair. On August 10, 1969, in La Paz, Peru suffered a controversial defeat against Bolivia, marred by allegations of match-fixing. Referee Sergio Chechelev annulled a legitimate Peruvian goal without justification, allowing Bolivia to win 2-1. Years later, Chechelev confessed to having been bribed by Argentina to favour Bolivia, hoping to manipulate the group standings in Argentina’s favour. 

Despite the setback, Peru demonstrated remarkable resolve. In their final group match against Argentina in Buenos Aires, a tense 2-2 draw secured Peru’s qualification and ensured Argentina’s shocking elimination. It remains the only time Argentina has failed to qualify for a World Cup, a testament to Peru’s grit and determination. 

The Didi Effect: A Mastermind at the Helm

Peru’s success in 1970 was shaped by the influence of their legendary coach, Didi. A World Cup winner with Brazil in 1958, Didi was widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders in football history. His appointment as Peru’s coach brought not only tactical expertise but also a psychological edge. 

Didi transformed a talented but inconsistent Peruvian side into a cohesive unit. He polished the raw skills of players like Teófilo Cubillas, Héctor Chumpitaz, and Ramón Mifflin, instilling in them the attacking flair synonymous with Brazilian football. Cubillas, who would go on to become Peru’s greatest-ever player, credited Didi for honing his shooting technique and turning him into a two-footed player. 

“Didi was responsible for my free-kicks, shooting, and for making me, a right-footed player, into a two-footed player,” Cubillas later said. 

A Nation Shaken: The 1970 Earthquake

As Peru prepared to make their mark on the World Cup, tragedy struck. On May 31, 1970, the day the tournament began, a devastating earthquake rocked Peru. With a magnitude of 7.9, the quake triggered an avalanche that buried towns and claimed nearly 70,000 lives, leaving a million people homeless. 

The catastrophe cast a shadow over the team’s campaign. The players were deeply affected, torn between their desire to return home and their commitment to the tournament. Ultimately, under Didi’s guidance, they resolved to honour their country by playing with passion and purpose, bringing hope and joy to a grieving nation. 

The Comeback Against Bulgaria

Peru’s opening match against Bulgaria on June 2, 1970, was a testament to their resilience. Shaken by the earthquake and trailing 2-0 after 50 minutes, the team seemed destined for defeat. But Didi’s tactical adjustments and the introduction of Hugo Sotil turned the game on its head. 

In a dramatic 23-minute spell, Peru scored three goals to complete one of the greatest comebacks in World Cup history. Gallardo and Chumpitaz struck to level the scores before Cubillas delivered a moment of individual brilliance to seal a 3-2 victory. The win was not just a triumph on the pitch but a symbol of Peru’s ability to overcome adversity. 

A Mixed Group Stage

Peru’s second match against Morocco followed a similar pattern. After a goalless first half, the team came alive in the second, scoring three goals in ten minutes, with Cubillas netting twice. 

Their final group match against West Germany, however, exposed their vulnerabilities. A first-half hat-trick from Gerd Müller left Peru trailing 3-1 at halftime, and despite Cubillas pulling one back, the game ended in a 3-1 defeat. Peru finished second in Group 4, setting up a quarterfinal clash with Brazil. 

The Quarterfinals: A Brave Battle Against Brazil

Facing the might of Brazil’s 1970 team—widely regarded as one of the greatest in football history—Peru were clear underdogs. Yet, under Didi’s guidance, they chose not to abandon their attacking philosophy. 

Brazil raced to a 2-0 lead within 15 minutes, but Peru refused to capitulate. Gallardo pulled one back before halftime, and Cubillas struck again in the second half to make it 3-2. However, a late goal from Jairzinho ended Peru’s valiant fight, with Brazil emerging 4-2 victors. 

Despite the loss, Peru earned widespread admiration for their courage and style of play. 

Teófilo Cubillas: The Rising Star

Cubillas was the undisputed hero of Peru’s campaign. Scoring five goals, including strikes in every match, he showcased his exceptional talent on the world stage. His performances earned him the Best Young Player award, drawing comparisons to Pele himself. 

When asked if he would return for the 1974 World Cup, Pele famously replied, “No, but don’t worry. I have a successor, and his name is Teófilo Cubillas.” 

Legacy: Winning Hearts and Inspiring Generations

Peru’s journey in the 1970 World Cup was more than just a sporting achievement; it was a story of resilience, unity, and the power of football to inspire a nation. Under Didi’s guidance, they played with flair and determination, earning their place among the great teams of the era. 

Though their run ended in the quarterfinals, Peru’s performances left an indelible mark on the tournament. For a brief moment, they stood alongside South American giants Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay as a force to be reckoned with. 

The 1970 World Cup remains a cherished chapter in Peruvian football history, a testament to the team’s ability to triumph over adversity and win hearts across the globe.

Thank You
Faisal Caesar

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

Brazil’s Renaissance Under Tite: A Symphony of Skill and Strategy

At the Estadio Nacional, Brazil glided past Peru with an assured elegance that has become their hallmark under Tite’s stewardship. Gabriel Jesus, the boy wonder of Brazilian football, not only scored a goal but orchestrated another with remarkable finesse. Had Paulinho connected with Douglas Costa’s sublime cross, the scoreline could easily have read 3-0—a testament to Brazil’s offensive prowess and tactical discipline. 

But this was not merely about the goals. What stood out was Brazil’s ability to press high and suffocate the opposition in their own half. Their midfield and defence operated like synchronized cogs in a well-oiled machine, allowing the attackers the freedom to express themselves creatively. It was a performance that evoked memories of Brazil’s storied past while signalling a bold, new era. 

Pressing, Precision, and Pragmatism 

For all the nostalgia surrounding Brazil’s flair and flamboyance, this team’s success is rooted in their pragmatism. Against Peru, the relentless pressing in advanced positions highlighted the tactical acumen instilled by Tite. Every player knew their role, every movement was purposeful, and the compactness in midfield ensured that transitions from defence to attack were seamless. 

While the magic against Argentina—a performance brimming with pace and guile—remains fresh in memory, such brilliance is not an everyday affair. Football’s reality demands consistency, and Brazil has embraced this truth under Tite, prioritizing structure and momentum over fleeting flashes of brilliance. 

Gabriel Jesus and the New Guard 

Central to Brazil’s resurgence is Gabriel Jesus, a player whose rise has been meteoric. In just a handful of games, he has scored five goals and delivered three assists, embodying the fearless spirit of a team in transition. His contributions go beyond numbers; his movement, vision, and composure in front of the goal have added a new dimension to Brazil’s attack. 

Meanwhile, Renato Augusto has flourished as a midfield linchpin under Tite’s tutelage, offering balance and creativity in equal measure. Veterans like Paulinho and Fernandinho, often criticized in the past, have rediscovered their form and purpose, providing steel and determination in the middle of the park. 

And then there are Neymar and Coutinho, the twin dynamos whose synergy is nothing short of mesmerizing. Neymar’s dynamism and Coutinho’s finesse have turned Brazil into an unpredictable force, capable of dismantling even the most resolute defences. 

A Bench to Envy 

The strength of Brazil’s bench recalls the golden days of yore when an entire team of reserves could compete with the best in the world. Douglas Costa, Thiago Silva, and Willian are names that would walk into most starting elevens but find themselves as part of Brazil’s enviable depth. This wealth of talent not only provides tactical flexibility but also ensures that complacency has no place in Tite’s squad. 

The Tite Effect 

Six consecutive victories mark Brazil’s resurgence under Tite, a streak that reflects not only the team’s ability but also the impact of a manager who understands the soul of Brazilian football. Tite has blended the attacking flair Brazil is known for with a modern, disciplined approach, restoring the team’s identity while making them tactically astute. 

Under his guidance, players who had faltered under the erratic tenure of Carlos Dunga have rediscovered their form and confidence. The chaotic and uninspiring football of Dunga’s Brazil now feels like a distant memory, replaced by a vision that inspires both players and fans alike. 

Closing a Triumphant Year 

As 2016 draws to a close, Brazil stands tall as a rejuvenated force in world football. The scars of their 2014 World Cup humiliation have begun to heal, replaced by a sense of optimism and purpose. With Tite at the helm, Brazil are not just winning; they are winning with style, substance, and the promise of greatness to come. 

The road ahead will demand more of this Brazil, but for now, the Selecão can bask in the glow of their resurgence. The lunacy of the past has been replaced by a symphony of skill and strategy—a Brazil reborn.  

Thank You

Faisal Caesar