Dunga sees France as favourites for 2002 World Cup

Brazilian World Cup winner Dunga believes France are in pole position to retain the trophy in just over a year's time when the tournament comes to Japan and South Korea.

Dunga, Brazil's captain when they beat Italy on penalties in the 1994 final, feels the World Cup holders' team level of play and understanding gives them the advantage.

"It's very difficult to say who the favourites are, but at this moment France are very strong," said the retired midfielder, who is in Japan helping his former club Jubilo Iwata prepare for the Asian Club Championships.

"Not only do France have good individual players, they also have a great team, whereas the likes of Spain, Italy and Brazil have good individuals but lack the teamwork."

Dunga, who made 99 league appearances for Jubilo between 1995 and 1998, said Brazil's biggest problem was that their manager Emerson Leao changed the team too much.

"I don't think they have the base for a team anymore, it seems like 11 different players are used in each game the play," he added.

"The coach is also slow to take advantage of the experienced players such as Roberto Carlos, Rivaldo, Cafu and Emerson.

"Brazil have many good players, but the coach must find the best team and keep these players together."

Dunga will travel with Jubilo to South Korea next week for the final stages of the Asian club championship.

He divides his time between working as a consultant for Jubilo and as a football analyst for a TV station in southern Brazil.