Defensive work of forwards helps Brazil keeper Brazao keep ‘clean sheet’
KOLKATA: The myth that the worst outfield player in any Brazilian football team stands in goal was busted long back. From Manga, who played in the 1966 World Cup, Flumeninse’s Castilho, Emerson Leao, Rogerio Ceni, Dida and Julio Cesar, there have been many shot-stoppers who have done remarkable service.
Whether Gabriel Brazao’s name would be added to that list will be known in due course, but he has kept a clean sheet in three of the four games this World Cup.
The Cruzeiro player – his role model is Fabio who has been at the same club since 2005 and made 426 appearances – has had 14 shots on goal and the only time Brazil conceded was Wesley’s self-goal against Spain.
“That’s because, for us defending starts with our forwards. The way they recover and run is important to there not being too many shots at my goal. We work really hard for it to be that way and are working in the same manner before the game against Germany,” said the baby-faced Brazao, after training in pouring rain on Friday.
With there being little activity around his penalty area, does it get difficult to stay focused, especially going into what should be their toughest match, Sunday’s quarter-final against Germany?
“Every match I play, I think it would be my last so I can’t afford to lose concentration. I have worked at clubs and with the national team to get ready for 90-120 minutes of football. That’s what you prepare for.”
With Vinicius Jr conspicuous by his absence and rumours of Alan joining him at Real Madrid swirling, Brazao was asked about his plans.
“I would like to thank god for everything that has happened in my life. For now, the World Cup is all I am focused on. The consequences of where I play in future will depend on what I do here.”
Brazao said his team has had a number of messages of support from senior team players such as Gabriel Jesus when Brazil were playing the last World Cup qualifier. And Brazil head coach Tite met and spoke to them at a preparatory camp in Teresopolis.