After 4,340 days, Brazil is world champion once again. The Canarinha’s sixth star has been 12 years in the making. The heavy favorite resolved the historical pressure at Uzbekistan 2024, adding to their impressive World Cup titles (1989, 1992, 1996, 2008, and 2012). They claimed victory in a South American showdown, an unprecedented final between Brazil and Argentina (2-1), the match FIFA had hoped for to overshadow the poorly received tenth edition and controversies surrounding the outdated competition system.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino watched from the stands at the Humo Arena in Tashkent, witnessing the best game among the 52 played over 22 days. Two titans faced off: Brazil driven by obligation, Argentina by passion. The Albiceleste, champions in 2016 under Diego Giustozzi, were in their third consecutive final, led by Matías Lucuix’s squad during a generational transition. Despite the surprises from Spain and Portugal, Argentina made it against all odds. Ukraine also deserves recognition, defeating a controversial France (7-1) and matching their best-ever finish from 1996.
Ferrao
Ferrao opened the scoring for Brazil with a brilliant assist from Marcenio in the 5th minute. However, Ferrao was injured during the shot, forcing coach Marquinhos Xavier to bring in Pito, who had missed the quarterfinals and semifinals due to injury. Pito’s appearance caused tension when he fouled Claudino, but the Spanish referees, Cordero Gallardo and Martínez Flores, decided against a red card after reviewing the incident. In the 12th minute, Rafa Santos deflected a Felipe Valerio shot, making it 2-0—reminiscent of the Copa América final.
Argentina struggled against Brazil’s goalkeeper, Willian, who had been key throughout the tournament, starting ahead of Guitta and Roncaglio. Despite a strong defense, Brazil couldn’t keep a clean sheet. In the 38th minute, Matías Rosa narrowed the gap for Argentina with a deflected shot, making it 2-1. It was a thrilling final, but only one champion could emerge. Argentina protested the non-review of a late play.
Brazil’s journey in Uzbekistan was not just about star power but tactical mastery by coach Marquinhos Xavier, who built a team focused on collective defense. Although they missed Marcel, the tournament’s top scorer, Brazil leaned on Willian, who won the Golden Glove, to secure the title. Argentina put up an incredible fight but couldn’t overcome the Seleção. Meanwhile, FIFA confirmed the dates for the inaugural Women’s World Cup, set to take place in the Philippines from November 21 to December 7, with 16 teams competing. Spain will aim to qualify during the Elite Round in March, with eight teams vying for UEFA’s four spots. The Philippines, as hosts, and New Zealand, the Oceania champions, are already confirmed participants. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation also announced its intention to bid for the next men’s World Cup, potentially making 2028 the first time the tournament is held in Africa.
