How Anderson Talisca Can Solve Brazil’s Goal Scoring Problems After Argentina Loss

• Brazil are sixth in the South American World Cup qualifying standings, eight points behind Argentina
• The Selecao are enduring a torrid run of poor form compounded by a seeming inability to score goals
• Sports Brief analyses why Al-Nassr's Anderson Talisca deserves the chance to address Brazil's woes

Just two days after Fluminense secured their first-ever Copa Libertadores triumph under Fernando Diniz's guidance, the coach - who doubles as the interim manager of Brazil - swiftly unveiled his squad, including heroes Nino and Andre, instrumental in defeating Boca Juniors in the final.

Among the notable inclusions was the 17-year-old prodigy Endrick, who earned his debut call-up to the senior Brazil squad. Diniz also handed first-time summons to Joao Pedro, Paulinho, and Pepe for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.

Uruguay's World Cup squad 2022: Which players represented Uruguay in this World Cup?

Football

Notably, Douglas Luiz from Aston Villa returned to the squad after a two-year hiatus, while several key players such as Danilo, Eder Militao, Casemiro, and the recovering Neymar were sidelined due to injuries.

Brazil's disappointing World Cup qualifying run

The World Cup qualifying journey has been challenging for Brazil, who stumbled into this month's games on the back of a 2-0 defeat to Uruguay and a 1-1 draw with Venezuela.

Their woes continued as they suffered a 2-1 loss to Colombia in Barranquilla, per the BBC. Seeking redemption, the Selecao with archrivals Argentina at the Maracana Stadium, but the outcome disappointed the home fans.

Argentina clinched a narrow 1-0 victory in a heated clash overshadowed by pre-match disturbances, marking their first competitive win against Brazil on Brazilian soil in five attempts, as cited by Sky Sports.

According to Opta Statistics, the defeat to the world champions ended Brazil's unbeaten run of 64 home games in South America's World Cup qualification, dropping them to seventh in the standings with seven points from 18.

Analyzing Xavi’s poor Champions League record as Barcelona manager after Shakhtar defeat

Football

The recent setbacks to Colombia and another against Argentina have left the team in a precarious position.

Brazil's scoring woes and struggle to find form

While the string of results has been concerning, Brazil's scoring drought has compounded their troubles. With only eight goals in six qualifying matches, they are averaging a mere 0.75 goals per game.

Their recent track record - having just three goals in the last four winless games - highlights the unusual struggle for a team historically known for prolific goal-scoring.

While the present generation of Gabriel Jesus, Vinicius Jr, Neymar, and Richarlison have been putting up a decent shift, the dire situation contrasts sharply with the country's top-notch hitmen such as Pele, Romario, and Ronaldo Nazario, to name a few.

To potentially rectify their goal-scoring struggles, the introduction of Talisca might be a significant move, offering hope of reigniting Brazil's attacking potency.

Hope on the horizon: Anderson Talisca's inclusion

Ronaldo receives praise for joining Al-Nassr after Man United's recent loss to Copenhagen

Football

The introduction of Talisca to the squad presents a potential solution to Brazil's scoring drought, offering a glimmer of hope in enhancing their attacking prowess.

His performance at Al-Nassr since his arrival in 2021 has been nothing short of sensational. Leading the scoring charts for two consecutive seasons, he managed 42 goals and four assists in 57 appearances across various competitions.

Recognizing his stellar contributions, the 29-year-old signed a fresh three-year contract with the Saudi Arabian giants in April, extending his stay at the club until 2026.

This season, he continued his prolific form, having already netted 17 goals and provided two assists in eight appearances across all competitions, per Transfermarkt.

How Talisca solves Brazil's problems

Cast in the mould of 2002 World Cup winner Rivaldo, the 29-year-old possesses the versatility to play as a false 9 or as a wide forward on either flank. This flexibility allows him the freedom to cut inside and unleash shots.

How Lionel Messi moved ace commentator Peter Drury to tears after Argentina's World Cup win: Video

Football

Known for his long-range shooting and precise long passes, according to WhoScored, his attributes bring directness and unpredictability to Brazil's usually straightforward attack.

Despite call-ups in November 2014 and March 2018, Talisca is yet to make his senior debut for the national team.

Why Brazil snubbed Talisca

Surprisingly, Talisca found himself omitted once more, sparking speculation that his involvement in the Saudi Pro League might be the cause.

Yet, Rodrigo Pavia, the official spokesperson for the Brazilian national team, clarified this situation by stating (via Sportskeeda):

"Talisca not being called up to the Brazilian national team is a technical decision and has nothing to do with his presence in the Rushen League [Saudi Pro League], and he may be called up in the future."

Exciting news! We have a WhatsApp channel 🤩

➡️ Click to join our channel for all your favourite sports news.

Real Madrid star pays tribute to Ronaldo, hits the 'Siuu' after nettting against Valencia

Football

Talisca inspires Al-Nassr to ACL victory

More recently, Sports Brief also reported on Talisca guiding Al-Nassr to victory against Al-Duhail in the absence of skipper, Cristiano Ronaldo.

The former Besiktas attacker recorded a hat-trick to take his side to within touching distance of the AFC Champions League knockout round.