'Building A Team Takes Time' – Brazil's Dorival Junior Stays Positive After Draw

Brazil are determined to improve their performance at the Copa America after a goalless draw with Costa Rica, according to Dorival Junior. The Selecao had 19 shots, but only three were on target, despite accumulating 1.71 expected goals in their opening Group D match.

With Colombia starting their campaign with a win over Paraguay, Brazil face increased pressure to deliver when they play against Paraguay on Friday. Coach Dorival emphasised the need for calm and patience. He stated, "It's natural that we all expected a slightly different result in the last game, but we can't fail to appreciate how we performed. The way we put our opponents in their defence."

Dorival Junior remains confident in Brazil's strategy and progress. He said, "I am convinced of what we are doing and what we are achieving. It is work we have just started, but I think we are progressing in a balanced way." He stressed the importance of maintaining composure and confidence throughout the tournament.

The coach also highlighted the transitional phase the team is undergoing. "We need to understand it's a time of change, of transition; you can't build a team overnight. It's a natural process," he explained.

Brazil will need to be more effective in their upcoming matches than they were on matchday one. Despite making 695 passes in their opening match—more than any other team in the first round—they struggled to convert these into goals.

The historical record between Brazil and Paraguay does not bode well either. Their last four encounters in the Copa America have ended in draws, marking the longest consecutive streak of draws between two teams in the competition's history.

Maintaining Positivity

Dorival Junior pointed out that Brazil has shown more positives than negatives in every match they have played recently. He urged for continued belief in their approach: "If every game we have doubts about everything we are doing, we will get nowhere."

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The coach's message is clear: patience and confidence are key as Brazil aims to find their form and make a strong impact at this year's Copa America.