Wednesday August 13, 2008
Quarter-finalists Brazil to rest key players
HAVING already reached the quarter-finals, Brazil coach Dunga is considering resting his key players for their final Olympic group game against China in Shenyang today.
The Brazilian side are packed with valuable talent, led by two-time World Player of the Year Ronaldinho, AC Milan sensation Alexandre Pato, and Manchester United's Anderson. And Dunga doesn't want to take unnecessary risks.
Pato: The AC Milan sensation is one of the star-studded players in the Brazil team. - AFP But he insisted that Brazil would not sit back in a match China must win to stand any chance of keeping their tournament alive.
“Brazil never treat any match as a friendly. We will take it as we take all of our matches,” said Dunga.
Brazil have looked the most dangerous team in the competition so far with Ronaldinho leading the side to a convincing 5-0 thrashing of New Zealand on Sunday after they beat Belgium 1-0 in their opener.
Goalkeeper Renan paid tribute to the Brazilian defence for helping him keep a clean sheet, but reminded them to keep their focus against China.
“It is important to maintain security at the back. Brazil are known for strong attacking, but we also have a good defensive team. We go into every game with the mentality that we are not going to concede.”
China's underachieving side must beat the South Americans with Belgium on three points in the group, and China and New Zealand on one apiece.
Chinese coach Yin Tiesheng knows their Olympics are all but over.
“I think Brazil have already shown their quality. It'll be a good opportunity for the players and coaches to play against a top team in the world,” he said. – AFP
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