Brazil's playing style reflects perils of football convergence

On the eve of the quarter-final game between Brazil and Colombia, the great Brazilian footballer Tostão has popped an embarrassing question for the selecao. Tostão wants to know who represents Brazil's midfield.

Brazil, five time winners of the Cup, is playing under pressure at home. It hasn't done anything momentous, but has progressed steadily, scoring few goals and conceding even less.

This is a far cry from the Brazilians of legend, who scarcely bothered to defend and would laugh if opponents scored against them, collect the ball and happily go forward and score a couple more.

Brazil now is solid in defence, fairly assured in attack, with little to connect attack and defence. But, probably, that's not the main problem for Brazil or any of the teams playing in the round of eight.

Today, football is so globalised, organised and technical that there are no pushovers at this level of the game. Most of the best national players ply their trade for the best clubs in the world and standards have converged.

This is a nightmare for players and coaches who keep coming up against sides that are at least as good as they are. But it's a treat for viewers, especially Indian ones, who have no stake in the Cup, because each match is played better, with more verve and competitiveness than before.