The result now means that the next game, against Paraguay, has taken on much more importance, and without naming any names, Menezes has said that he will make changes to the side if necessary.
“We will improve the part of creation and completion,” he said, referring to the attacking midfielders and forwards. “If we see in training that we need to change, then we can try something different. But let’s not just blame the attack; the adjustments will be for everybody.”
One change that has been suggested is the inclusion of Elano ahead of one of the forwards. This would allow more support for Ganso, who looked lost against Venezuela, behind the front men. If this were to happen, the player most likely to lose his place in the team would be Robinho, who was wasteful on Sunday night.
Neymar was heavily criticised by the media after the game, but it is worth remembering that he was playing in an unfamiliar role on the left side of the attack. If he were to revert to the central position that he usually plays for Santos, he could have more of an impact on the game.
Another change of personnel that has been mentioned is the inclusion of Fred ahead of Alexandre Pato. The Fluminense forward came on as a sub in the first game, and Menezes reportedly feels he brings a more of a ‘goal-poacher’ threat than Pato.
“It seems that our problem is quite clear,” added the coach. “We controlled the game and took the initiative, but lacked potency up front. We were very open but the centre forward was not getting enough support. This is what we are aiming to improve.”
Keep checking back at Sambafoot for all the team news and build up for Brazil’s next game, which is against Paraguay on Saturday night.
