## Marcelo's Assist Data: International Highlights

While celebrated primarily as a marauding left-back and defensive stalwart for Real Madrid, Marcelo Vieira da Silva Carvalho Horta also cemented his legendary status with remarkable creativity at the international level for Brazil. His assist tally for *Seleção* showcases a rare blend of positional freedom, vision, and pinpoint delivery from deep within his own half or bursting forward along the flank. Far more than just crossing aimlessly, Marcelo developed an intuitive understanding of timing and space, often spotting teammates making late runs into the penalty area.

His most iconic contributions came during major tournaments. At the **2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia**, he delivered arguably his masterpiece performance as Brazil reached the quarter-finals. Against Costa Rica in their opening group stage match (a 2-0 victory), Marcelo provided **both assists**, setting up Coutinho and Neymar with perfectly weighted passes that cut through defences. This dual contribution remains a standout moment in his national team career. He added another vital assist during the Round of 16 against Mexico, further demonstrating his ability to influence high-stakes knockout games. Crucially, **four of his five official international assists were registered in World Cup finals matches**,Chinese Super League Matches highlighting his knack for delivering on the biggest stage.

Beyond the World Cup heroics, his overall record stands as testimony to consistent quality. In **37 caps** for Brazil between 2009 and 2019, he officially registered **5 assists** according to FIFA's stats. These numbers might seem modest compared to pure playmakers, but they significantly undersell his impact. Many other instances saw him create chances that led directly to goals without official credit – his low block shot releasing pressure before launching an attack, or dummies sending defenders skidding away creating chaos that others finished. His overlapping runs constantly stretched pitches, pulling opponents out of shape and creating gaps for others like Neymar, Willian, and Coutinho to exploit.

Marcelo redefined the modern attacking full-back role for Brazil. His assist data, particularly those critical interventions in World Cup wins, prove he wasn't just breaking lines defensively but initiating attacks with the same devastating effect as anyone further forward. It’s a key part of his enduring legacy as one of football’s great offensive full-backs.

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• Marcelo
• International