Brazil. What comes into your mind? Superbeauties? Rio? Havaianas? Churrascaria? The country was in the pageant map recently thanks to its hosting of Miss Universe but this sexiest country on earth is struggling to win the Miss World crown in recent years. Though it has won the title once, it has experience several dry spells, one in 1986-1995 and another in 1999-2005. This year, it is not making a splash. The fact that Missosology Beauty Experts chose to ignore Miss Brazil Mariana Notarangelo is a bit perplexing. One thing, she is in the Top Model Semifinals but still she is not being talked about that much. Perhaps a lot of beauty watchers are not so really happy that she was simply selected from a group of previous contestants of Miss Mundo Brasil. It was like choosing from the leftovers. As such, there is that illusion that Mariana is not a strong contender.

Not so fast. Mariana IS a strong contender. She has that looks that says I can be in the top 7. History is on her side. Brazil has a lot of odds in making it to the semis of Miss World based on its previous record. Mariana has a great body and expect her to do well on the Beach Beauty competition. As mentioned she was one of those Top Model semifinalists which means the MW people already noticed her. Her World Designer Award performance may not be excellent but her scarlet gown showed her strong points - great confidence and a vavavoom body.

This year may not be the year when Brazil will win the Miss World crown but it is not farfetched that Mariana will come a little bit closer in achieving that. In the next few weeks, we will see how she will be placed in other competitions. Brazil may not be expecting a lot, but it would be a welcome news should Mariana finish as second or first princess. Or Miss World?

How far will Miss Brazil Mariana Notarangelo go at Miss World 2012? Top 7? First Princess? Winner? Share your thoughts!