Not being the favourite is good for Brazil, says Casemiro

Brazil midfielder Casemiro believes being “one step behind” the other World Cup favourites could be good for them heading into the tournament, which starts next week.

Brazil will be aiming to win a record sixth World Cup, but bookmakers are predicting that Brazil are a bit behind in the tournament, which will be held in North America from June 11 to July 19. They are ahead of European champions Spain, 2018 World Cup winners France and England.

“We are not the main favourites this time. But of course we are in good shape; we have a great mix of experience and youth in our team,” Casemiro told FIFA after Brazil arrived in the United States on Tuesday.

He added, “Maybe we are a step behind this time, but we are fully alert and ready. That is always good. We want to start the tournament in good form and have a great World Cup.”

The 34-year-old star said Brazil had to go through a “difficult time” in preparing for the World Cup, as the Brazilian Football Confederation brought in Carlo Ancelotti as coach and elected a new president last year.

Casemiro said, “It was a difficult time because of the change of coach, the arrival of a new president and various problems.”

He added, “We have only been under the new coach for a year. He has great experience in football, but to be honest we have only had the opportunity to work together for about 40 days. Even so, I believe we will go into the tournament as a strong team.”

Regarding the strength of the team, he said, “Our team has a bunch of young and energetic footballers along with quality and experienced players. Our team is well-organized for this tournament.”

Brazil’s opponents in Group ‘C’ at this year’s World Cup are Morocco, Haiti and Scotland.