Brazil’s Tite dislikes penalty shoot-outs
"TAKING A penalty is something really hard. A football match should never end by taking penalties," Tite said yesterday. "I don't see that as a valid result. But I don't know what to suggest instead."
The five-time champions have a 3-1 record in penalty shoot-outs at the World Cup. After losing the first one they played against France in 1986, the Selecao came out on top of the last three.
Brazil won the 1994 World Cup final by defeating Italy in a shoot-out following a goalless draw, eliminated the Netherlands on penalties to make it to the 1998 final, and advanced to the quarter-finals four years ago by ousting Chile the same way.
Only Germany and Argentina, with four wins each, have won more World Cup shoot-outs than Brazil.
Tite said his players have been practising spot kicks ahead of their quarter-final match against Belgium today. Three of the eight knockout matches so far at this year's World Cup were decided by a penalty shoot-out.
EMOTIONAL CONTROL
"Taking penalties is a technique that is associated with emotional control," Tite said. "We have been practising penalties. It's an incredible responsibility."
Before shoot-outs were introduced at the World Cup in 1978, matches that ended in a draw were replayed. The first shoot-out came at the 1982 tournament in Spain.
Brazil and Belgium have met only once at the World Cup, back in 2002 when the South Americans won 2-0 in the last 16. But Belgium have arguably their best-ever team this year, with strength in all positions.
Led by captain Eden Hazard, Belgium have played an enthralling brand of attacking football and are the highest scorers in the competition with 12 goals in four matches. Striker Romelu Lukaku has scored four of those and is second at the tournament behind England striker Harry Kane, who has six.
"Belgium is not just about Lukaku," Brazil centre back Miranda said. "It's a very strong attacking team. They have several high qualities, very skillful, and can play a very vertical game. But our defence is going to be well prepared to neutralise all of their attacks."
Tite said Marcelo will return at left back against Belgium after he was sidelined with back problems during Brazil's 2-0 win over Mexico in the previous round.
"Filipe Luís played very well," Tite said, "but Marcelo is coming back." Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho will also likely be given a starting role as a replacement for Casemiro, who is suspended for the match.