Adrian Deans is slowly making his way to Russia. Along the way he is testing the mood of fans from some of the participating countries and the next instalment is Brazil – one of the tournament favourites. Adrian had a chance encounter with Paolo and Dominique from Goiania, who were surprisingly downbeat about their country’s chances.
Adrian: You and Argentina are traditional rivals?
Paolo: I don’t like to say too much about Argentina. We don’t get on when it comes to football. The Argentinians fight like no other country in football and of course they have Messi. He has never won anything yet but it’s hard to see him never winning a big tournament and this might be his last chance. I hope Brazil does not have to play Argentina. They are a problem.
Adrian: I notice you didn’t tip the Australian team…which once beat Brazil in the Confederations Cup.
Paolo: They did?
Adrian: Yes, but then we played again in the final and the score was a little different. Six nil to Brazil.
Paolo: I think it would be good if a team like Australia could win the World Cup. It would be good for the game. I think you will beat France.
Adrian: Obviously the world already knows about Neymar and some of the other established players, are there any new young players who might become superstars at this tournament?
Paolo: I think all the good players are already well known. Maybe Alisson, the goalkeeper, could become famous. He is outstanding. We do not have a good tradition for goalkeepers but he is very special.
Dominique: He is different, beautiful.

Adrian: You’ve usually had ugly keepers in the past?
Dominique: I don’t know, but he is very beautiful.
Adrian: So there you have it, a beautiful goalkeeper playing the beautiful game, but the Brazil fans have more than just football on their minds, it seems. For my part I expect Brazil to make the final…probably against Australia.
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