LoFormer Brazilian player Ronaldo is a ‘prodigy’ in football. He was part of the Brazil team that reached the final twice in 1998 and 2002. Ronaldo, who played a crucial role in making Brazil the World Cup winner in 2002, was also part of the Brazil team that won the World Cup in 1994. Ronaldo talks to Mathrubhumi about his chances at the World Cup in Qatar.
Can Brazil win the World Cup after 20 years?
Ronaldo: We have a great squad. Brazil have played well in all the qualifiers. The teams had to play very hard in the different climates of Latin America to qualify. Brazil is reached through those hard roads.
Brazil is a talented team. Will it be difficult for the trainer to choose the best combination?
Yes. In the starting XI, coach Titek will have to find three of the best six players and make a combination.
Vinicius, Rodrigo, Gabriel Jesus, Richalison, Rafinha, Anthony… Can you pick two?
That is for Tite to decide. I think he will have decided his playing eleven by now. An in-form Vinicius should be a priority for Real Madrid.
Brazil has dominated Europe since winning the World Cup in 2002. Why is this?
European players are playing well. They are fast and aggressive like the Brazilians. European teams tend to defend well. Many Latin American players are playing in European clubs. In fact, Europe does not have much hegemony now. There are no major differences in the game between Latin America and Europe.
Are you likely to coach a favorite team?
Never. Being a coach is hard work. As a player, the idea is to win as many games as possible and go home. But the coach has to think about his squad, who to play, how to play, who is better and who are the opponents. I never wanted to be a coach.
In 2002, you scored eight goals in seven games. No player has scored so many goals in a single World Cup since then. Can we see anyone scoring more goals in Qatar?
Players who can score goals in every match are playing in Qatar. For a player to score more goals, their team must reach the semi-finals or finals. I’m not naming anyone. But there may be some who can score 5-6 goals if their team reaches the semis.
What are the ingredients needed to win the World Cup?
A good squad is essential. Quality defence, good midfield and forwards capable of converting chances.
Apart from Brazil, which other teams are favorites in this World Cup?
France is the first. Germany cannot be ruled out. England recently reached the Euro finals. Spain is playing well. Portugal is also a good team.
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