With just over twenty-four hours to go before Brazil take on England all members of the selecão were brought together for a communal training session at the new Wembley.
The team seemed in good spirits as they practiced under the glaring sun and beneath the Brazil and England flags that had already been hung to mark the occasion.
Despite Brazil being the first team to face England at the new stadium Dunga denied feeling the weight of history on his shoulders. “Of course it’s an historic match but every game against England is important, wherever it is played.”
For the training session Dunga split the squad in two revealing his first choice starting eleven, or so we assume:
Helton, Daniel Alves, Naldo, Juan and Gilberto; Gilberto Silva, Mineiro, Kaká and Ronaldinho; Robinho and Vagner Love.
Afonso is unlikely to start but was optimistic about his chance of making an impact nevertheless.
He seemed reluctant to comment on whether he expects to make the final squad for the Copa America but when it was pointed out that Gilberto Silva earned a place at the 2002 World Cup squad after just two games in a yellow shirt he went on to add, “Who knows, I hope so. It is what I’m preparing for.”
Dunga refused to be drawn on whether Alfonso will play; “Of course he’s available just like all the other players – if I have the opportunity to use him I will.”
The atmosphere was relaxed as the team trained but the state of the pitch was obviously a cause for concern. When challenged about it in the press conference that followed Dunga admitted they were having problems.
“I expected better from a new stadium. It will be difficult; the grass comes away too easily and we had problems controlling the ball, and with some of our movements.”
When asked whether the knowledge that President Lula will be watching from the stands will affect him Dunga was clear, “Why should it, he will be supporting Brazil won’t he?”
The match kicks off at 8pm tomorrow.
