Brazil defender Miranda says Vincent Kompany’s remarks about Brazil ahead of their quarterfinal clash are a way of hiding his fear.
Belgium face Brazil in a highly anticipated quarterfinal clash in Kazan tomorrow. Belgium narrowly squeezed through the round of 16 coming from two goals down to beat a stubborn Japan side.
Brazil, on the other hand, breezed past a Mexico that has impressed at the tournament beating favorites Germany.
Kompany and his compatriots will have their work cut out to try to stop a dangerous Brazil side that has scored seven and conceded only one in four games at the World Cup.
Speaking ahead of the game, Kompany said Belgium must not show fear and will have to ‘look Brazil in the eyes’ if they are to get a result against the South Americans. This game will, however, require more than character from the Red Devils with Belgium looking very suspect at the back.
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With the way Belgium have set up, Roberto Martinez has gone all guns blazing in attack and left his defence without enough protection, something that might cost Belgium.
Perhaps the Brazil camp are in confident mood after seeing how shaky the Belgians have looked.
"“We know all kinds of provocation, a way to hide your fear. I think it’s a way of showing trust and hiding fear. You have to prepare yourself especially against the Brazil national team, and a leader like Kompany has to show confidence to his teammates, like the more experienced players have to show confidence in our actions to our teammates.” Brazil centre back, Miranda."
He, however, warned his teammates of the danger Belgium possess in attack, with Kevin De Bruyne, Eden Hazard, Dries Maartens and Thomas Meunier all possessing game-changing qualities.
"“Belgium is not just Lukaku. Certainly, they have a very strong attack, but the main way to stop the opponent is to be aware of all the players on the pitch. They have several high-quality players, they are very skillful and taller, so our defence will be very well-prepared to neutralize all of the opponent’s attacks.”"
Two confident teams who will be looking to progress to semi-finals come Friday night, with the trophy in touching distance.