Juninho Criticizes Brazil’s Tactical Setup Ahead of World Cup Semi-Final Against Germany
Juninho, the former Olympique Lyonnais star and respected football analyst, has voiced strong opinions about Brazil’s tactical approach just hours before their highly anticipated 2014 World Cup semi-final clash with Germany.
Expressing dissatisfaction not with the players but with the game plan, Juninho criticized coach Luis Felipe Scolari’s use of a 4-2-4 formation featuring only two defensive midfielders. “What bothers me is not the players but the game system. We play with two ball-winners in a 4-2-4. That’s not modern football!” he said.
Juninho argued that Brazil’s midfield setup would struggle against Germany’s trio of Bastian Schweinsteiger, Toni Kroos, and Sami Khedira—three players who excel at controlling the center of the pitch. In contrast, Brazil fielded Luiz Gustavo and Paulinho in midfield, which Juninho felt left them vulnerable. “We risk losing the midfield battle and being dominated all the time,” he warned.
He further suggested a tactical adjustment by adding a third midfielder and deploying Hulk on the left wing to counter Germany’s Philipp Lahm. “I think we should put Hulk in to play opposite Philipp Lahm on the left wing. With his power, Hulk can make the difference. He could be one of the keys for Brazil!” Juninho added.
The former Lyon playmaker’s critique highlights the tactical challenges Brazil faced against a well-organized German side and fuels debate on whether Scolari’s approach was too conservative for such a crucial match.
