Note from Black Matt: I haven’t been able to finish Part II of my “Brazil All-Time XI” series, so February is “Guest Article Month” here on the site.  Kicking things off is our own Zetona, who gives us his thoughts on what Brazil need to do to make 2016 successful.  Later in the month, we’ll feature a two-part “Seleção Classics” article from Lisgar. 

So without further ado, take it away, Zetona! 

2016 is shaping up to be a big year for Brazilian football. Of course, we said the same in 2015, and 2014, and 2013, and 2012, and 2011, and 2010, and you know what, maybe I shouldn’t start this article with the tiredest of clichés. But by my count, between eight World Cup qualifiers, the Olympics, and the Copa America Centenário, we could see some players putting on the yellow jersey over 20 times this year,[1] more than any year since the 90s. The current side is a far cry from the glory days of the late 90s, and after the last two years of tournament disappointments and sub-par displays, there’s plenty of pessimism in the air. If the cards fall just right, though, this year could sweep those bad vibes away.

Here’s what needs to happen this year for it to keep us smiling.[2]

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