Brazil is getting better – Tite

– Tite insists Brazil can cope with being installed as World Cup favourites following Germany’s shock exit, with the Selecao boss backing his side to grow in the knockout stages at Russia 2018.

Brazil sealed a 2-0 win over Serbia on Wednesday with goals either side of half-time by Paulinho and Thiago Silva to set up a last16 clash against Mexico on Tuesday in Samara.

With Germany failing to advance past the first round for the first time in 80 years, Brazil are now installed with many bookmakers as their favourite to win.

Tite expects the Group E winners to grow in the knockout stages.

“We can take the pressure, we are a balanced team and we have replacements, which is important,” said the Brazilian head coach. “For example, Marcelo was injured early on and we were able to replace him.

“For us, this is about getting stronger and growing. We have had three matches and things are on the up.”

Tite said he suffers with an embarrassment of riches, adding: “It’s one of the things which drains me the most, to leave quality out.

“It’s a short tournament and you have to have the right athletes for the right games.”

Their latest victory may have come at a price as leftback Marcelo was forced off in the 10th minute. Visibly struggling, the Real Madrid defender was initially reluctant to leave the pitch before being replaced by Filipe Luis.

“We don’t have an update, I just know he has a problem with his back,” revealed Tite. “It was a spasm in the stabilising muscle and you can’t play with that.” – AFP