Brazil defender Miranda has called on the more experienced players in the squad to rise up to the occasion by ensuring that they put in their best to make sure that Brazil qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
He said this as Brazil prepare to kick off their World Cup qualifiers, without captain Neymar, against in-form Chile in Santiago on October 8.
Barcelona’s Neymar was suspended for four international games after seeing red in the Copa America which Chile went on to win by beating favourites, Argentina.
Miranda, who plays as a centre back for Inter Milan in Italy, said that it was important the team start their campaign on a solid footing against Chile.
“The most experienced need to show themselves and take responsibility. Chile are in the best moment, we cannot afford to hide.
“It will be a major challenge, facing a winning team who will be motivated by a strong home crowd. But the Selecao have worldwide respect and will look to earn a good result,” he said.
The former Atletico Madrid man, who became a regular after breaking into the squad in 2014, implored his teammates not to be carried away by their recent success at the Chevrolet Global Tour in which they recorded victories against USA and Costa Rica.
He said the qualifiers will task them and they must be prepared for the pressure.
The 31-year-old says of the CONMEBOL World Cup qualification series, “It is different from any other competition.
“These are more difficult games. Every move is more important in these games which will require much greater attention.”
After the game against Chile on Thursday, the team next plays Venezuela on October 13.
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