Despite entering the World Cup as one of the best teams in the world, Brazilian players are wary of getting ahead of themselves.
Brazilian players Rodrygo and Marquinhos have warned their teammates about the dangers of buying into their own hype, saying nothing good can come from expecting to win as favourites.
Boasting one of the strongest squads on paper, Brazil’s squad includes world-class highlights such as Neymar and Vinicius Junior, and they have reached two Copa America finals since the 2018 World Cup, winning in 2019 and losing to Argentina 1 in 2021: 0.
They will also play in Group G, where they will be joined by Cameroon, Serbia and Switzerland in a three-match tie in which Brazil will be heavily favoured.
Real Madrid’s Rodrygo told the media on Thursday that he understands the pressure on his side to perform in Qatar but would prefer to let their play do the talking.
“We know we have a great national team, that we are among the favorites,” he said. “But there are other very good teams.
“It’s no use saying we’re favourites, then coming on the pitch and not showing it. We know everyone’s been in good form with their clubs and that’s why they’re here – a lot of good players have been left out.”
Paris Saint-Germain centre-back Marquinhos has agreed he will need to play hungry to fulfill his potential.
“If we think that we are the favourites, that we are the best, we will not advance,” he said. “We have seen how things are in this competition, which is very difficult.
“All the teams are prepared and very balanced, they can make life difficult. That’s the [World] Cup.
“There is no point in coming here and talking about the future. We have to get through [the group stage] first. It will be three very difficult games.”
Brazil begin their campaign on Thursday 24 November against Serbia.
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