The most successful team in World Cup history, and arguably the most popular, Brazil has fostered some of the biggest names in football - including Pele, Ronaldo, Kaka and Ronaldinho.

Since winning the tournament in 1958 ? thanks to a phenomenal Pele - they have added another five World Cup titles in '58, '62, '70, '94 and finally 2002.

The Samba Boys failed to replicate their '02 heroics in the last edition of the showpiece event in Germany, which was their most disappointing to date. Even with Carlos Alberto Parreira back in charge and a team including Kaka, Ze Roberto, Ronaldinho, Adriano and Ronaldo, they were bundled out in the quarterfinals by a rejuvenated France.

Results have been on an upward curve since Germany, however, and the Brazilians have already tasted success in South Africa earlier this year when they won the Confed Cup. They will arrive in South Africa as one of the favourites.

Coach: Dunga

A former defensive midfielder and World Cup winner with Brazil, Dunga took over the reins of the national team from Carlos Alberto Parreira following the team's poor showing in the 2006 World Cup. Dunga's first point of business was to ensure that all players were treated as equals - using not just the big name players, but local stars as well. The results to date have been favourable with Dunga leading the side to their second straight Copa America title - beating rivals Argentina 3-0 in the Final, as well as the Confed Cup title.

Captain: Lucimar Ferreira da Silva

More commonly known by supporters as Lucio, the Inter Milan defender was appointed captain by Dunga when he took over the team after the World Cup in 2006. With 88 caps for Brazil the defender has a wealth of experience necessary to lead the Brazilian renaissance. Lucio also holds the FIFA record for the most consecutive minutes without committing a foul - 386 set during the World Cup in 2006 - a streak which was finally broken in Brazil's 1-0 quarterfinal loss to France.

Star players: Robinho, Kaka, Lucio