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Brazil’s defeat to Norway in the World Cup Round of 16 has raised fresh questions over the Seleção’s decline. The report said Guimarães’ missed penalty became a turning point, while Brazil’s struggles against European teams continued. After years of tactical changes and inconsistent performances, the five-time champions face concerns over their football identity and future prospects.

Mumbai: To get a sense of what Brazil's catastrophic defeat to Norway in the World Cup Round of 16 match in East Rutherford, one has to look at the costly penalty miss by Guimares in the 14th minute that turned out to be a defining moment in the huge clash.

Guimares' flop show was the first time since 1986 that a Brazilian player has failed to convert a penalty at the World Cup. The last occasion was in 1986 by Zico and is a telling reminder of the waning of Brazil's powers.

Brazil, who carry the highest traditions of the 'Beautiful Game' no longer possess the magical prowess that made them the dominant force in world football.

From the heydays of Pele, Socrates and Zico to the mesmerising football of Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Romario and Ronaldinho, the 'Selecao' have built a legacy unmatched in world football.