New Delhi, July 7 -- Considering their woeful form in the South American World Cup qualifiers, most Brazil fans would have feared for the worst, yet prayed for the best when the tournament rolled around last month. But even the most pessimistic wouldn't have anticipated a defeat in the Round of 16, which was the five-time champions' earliest exit since the World Cup 1990.

Following the exit at the hands of Norway, Brazil Since winning their record fifth title in 2022, Brazil have now been beaten at the Quarter Final stage or earlier by European opponents in 5 editions. The one time Brazil did get to the semis, in 2014, they were thumped 7-1 by Germany. This would indicate a systemic downfall rather than the 2-1 defeat against Norway bein...