Dunga: Ready to Conquer

By Gordza Fleet, writing from New York City

It was with much fanfare that the Brazilian squad for this year’s World Cup was announced in the Brazilian city of Curitiba. People around the world eagerly awaited the sight of the men who would represent the Seleção in the first African World Cup. Most were sorely disappointed. In typical form, Dunga had resisted campaigns from the Brazilian media and the Brazilian people. He stuck to his players. The biggest surprise was the inclusion of Grafite over Adriano.

The initial shock of missing players was soon replaced by derision from many. Was this the squad the mighty Samba Boys were sending to the World Cup? Doni and Julio Baptista who had been warming the bench for Roma. Gilberto and Michel Bastos who aren’t true left backs. Josué and Elano who had underperformed this season. Kleberson? Peals of laughter accompanied the inclusion of the Manchester United flop, especially from English fans. Where were Pato, Ronaldinho, Diego, Neymar, and Ganso? Yet, looking at the squad and the players available, who really should have gone who didn’t make the cut?