Gabriel Magalhaes offers Brazil aggression, strength and a clear threat at set pieces. His ability to attack corners gives Brazil another route to goal when opponents defend deep, while his front-foot defending can help the team hold a higher line.
Beside him, William Saliba brings recovery pace and composure in possession. His calmness under pressure is particularly valuable in knockout football, where one rushed pass can change a tie. France also have depth through Ibrahima Konate and Dayot Upamecano, but Saliba’s availability and rhythm will be central to their defensive balance.
Virgil van Dijk gives the Netherlands more than experience. He organises the defensive line, dominates aerial contests and remains a significant threat from attacking set pieces. His positioning allows teammates to defend with greater authority, while his leadership becomes more important as matches tighten.
The Netherlands’ progress may depend on how effectively they turn that defensive control into territory and chances. Van Dijk remains the clearest reference point in both penalty areas.
Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes can alter a match without playing as conventional defenders. Hakimi’s pace and timing provide Morocco with an outlet in transition, while his performances during the country’s run to the 2022 semi-finals established his influence on the global stage.
For Portugal, Mendes supplies similar energy from the left. His acceleration can stretch a compact defence, and his delivery gives Portugal width when central areas are crowded. Both players force opponents to make difficult choices: defend the flank, or leave space for runners inside.
The next storyline will be team selection. When the knockout rounds arrive, the defenders who combine control with attacking output could decide which contenders survive.