Whether they are playing in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro or the hulking arenas of Qatar, Brazilians value a certain style of soccer. It must be played with elegance, with verve and flair, with joy in their feet and smiles on their faces — and that must lead, most importantly, to the ball in the net.
For all the romance of jogo bonito — and it sure is easy to swoon at the Seleção — Brazil prioritizes victory over all. It has not won its knockout-stage match Monday against South Korea — not yet at least.
But it is frolicking and romping all over the field, scoring dazzling goals and celebrating them afterward — all four, so far — with the confidence of a side that knows just how good, and fun, it is.