Romario: Brazil ‘grateful to Baggio’, Baresi the ‘most difficult to face’ | OneFootball

Brazilian legend Romario says Franco Baresi was the ‘most difficult’ opponent he faced during his playing career but is ‘grateful’ to Roberto Baggio for missing a penalty kick in the 1994 World Cup Final, even if the Divin Codino ‘still carries the frustration within him.’

Former Brazilian star Romario, a 1994 World Cup winner, gave an interview to Gazzetta following the Seleçao’s 1-1 draw against Morocco in their 2026 World Cup debut over the weekend.

Romario comments on Brazil, Baggio, Baresi and…Pelé

“Brazil played very poorly and the draw was very significant. Morocco deserved to win; they were clearly superior in the first half,” Romario admitted.

“We were fortunate not to concede more goals… Fortunately, the game balanced out afterwards.”

Neymar is part of the Brazil squad for the World Cup but is still injured.

“I met Neymar by chance before the match; he told me he’s recovering well and is ready to play, if not in the next game, then the one after,” Romario said.

“I believe that Neymar, even if not 100% fit, would perform better than the other forwards did on their debut.”

Following Brazil’s debut at the 2026 World Cup, Romario is not too optimistic about their chances of lifting the trophy.

“I would love for them to win, but the chances seem lower to me. For me, the favourites are France, Spain, Portugal, and Argentina,” he said.

Romario did win the World Cup in 1994, beating Italy on penalties in the final.

“We Brazilians are grateful to Baggio for that mistake, but I know he still carries the frustration within him,” said the ex-striker.

“It’s sad because as a child, he dreamed of playing and winning a World Cup final against Brazil.”

Baresi was another legendary Italy player at the 1994 World Cup. The ex-defender had to undergo surgery a year ago to remove a pulmonary nodule and had begun a course of immunotherapy.

“I’m very sorry to hear that, and I wish him a speedy recovery. May God protect him, his family, and his health,” said Romario.

“He was the toughest player I ever played against. I don’t know if he was the absolute best, but certainly the most difficult to face.”

Talking about football legends, Romario has no doubts about the best footballer of all time.

“Pelé was the greatest of all time, no kidding. In fact, if football were ever to change its name, it should be called Pelé,” he concluded.