Escalação

Escalação is a term used in Brazilian Portuguese to refer to the lineup or starting players of a sports team, most commonly in football (soccer). It designates the set of athletes who will begin a match. The manager or coach is responsible for deciding the escalação, taking into consideration factors such as player form, opponent's strengths and weaknesses, tactical strategy, and any injuries or suspensions.

The choice of escalação can significantly influence the outcome of a game. Different formations, player pairings, and individual roles within the team are all determined by the coach's selection. Fans and media often analyze and debate the escalação, discussing its potential effectiveness and predicting the team's performance. Sometimes, surprise escalações can be used as a tactical maneuver to catch opponents off guard.

Beyond just naming the starting eleven, the concept of escalação also implies the overall squad depth and the available substitutes who can come into the game later. The decision of who to include in the starting lineup versus who to keep on the bench is a critical aspect of team management and strategy in professional sports.