When things aren't going well for Brazil, their media and fans are the first to get on the manager's and players' backs.

Conversely the hype machine will be in overdrive in this nation of nearly 200 million people after their 3 - 0 win over Spain in the Confederations Cup final. 

It would be easy for Brazil to feel confident of glory at next year's World Cup based on the way in which they picked Spain apart at the Maracana.

But they will do well to be cautious.

Balance

Spain were missing one key facet that makes them less vulnerable than Barcelona - Xabi Alonso. The Real Madrid midfielder normally sits deep alongside Sergio Busquets, providing balance and reducing La Furia Roja's vulnerability to the counter-attack.

Andres Iniesta and Xavi operated much further forward which left Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique constantly exposed on the break. 

However there is an interesting subtext. Reports emerged recently suggesting that Xavi had attempted to influence manager Vicente Del Bosque in regards to who he would partner in midfield. This is significant as the Barca metronome's relationship with Alonso has allegedly deteriorated as a result of recent El Clasicos. 

Injury may have robbed Spain of Alonso for the Confederations Cup but one would assume that he would be a certain starter regardless of Xavi's opinions.

 

Counter

Aside from Alonso's absence, Spain's style of play suits Brazil who have become overtly reliant on the counter over the past two decades.

Under Dunga, breaking at pace and utilizing transitions was a key part of Brazil's game in the lead up to and during the 2010 World Cup. Although his replacement Mano Menezes tried to wean the Selecao away from this tendency, Big Phil Scolari is a naturally pragmatic coach.

Playing against a team that comes at them, Brazil have the pace and firepower to trouble any side, but conversly are less effective against teams which sit back.

But Brazil must be lauded for the aggressive pressing that they subjected the World and European champions to.

 

Arbeloa

If Spain have one weak link in their side it is Alvaro Arbeloa. The Real Madrid full back is virtually ineffective going forward. And last night he was defensively suspect when left one-on-one with Neymar.

In terms of viable options on the right of the defence, Del Bosque can also choose from Chelsea's Cesar Azplicueta or Barcelona's inexperienced but talented Martin Montoya. But in reality neither is truly tested at the very highest level.

The other weak link is up front. Fernando Torres looked a bit sheepish picking up the Golden Boot last night with good reason, with four of his five goals coming against Tahiti.

Meanwhile David Villa, a hero for Spain during the 2010 World Cup, has regressed after his broken leg in December 2011.

 

Fatigue

It is almost a cliche now that this current Spain side have plenty of miles in their legs but they also played extra-time against Italy, with Brazil also benefiting from an extra day's rest.

One must also note that Brazil have won the last two Confederations Cups, going onto disappoint in the World Cup, while Spain's last appearance saw them shocked by USA.