It will be easier said than done but Brazil attempt to put their World Cup humiliation behind them when they start life under new coach Dunga in a friendly against Colombia in Miami on Friday.
Barely two months after their shocking 7-1 defeat to Germany in the semi-finals of the tournament they hosted, there is a new look to the Selecao with Dunga, in his second spell in charge, hoping that fresh faces will be less affected by July’s traumatic exit. The coach’s message of not dwelling on the past has been embraced.
“Dunga told all of us that we have to hold our heads up, put the past behind us, show our ability and that we deserve to be national team players,” midfielder Oscar told Reuters.
“It is not easy to put the Germany defeat out of our minds, it is difficult, but we have to work and to show our value.”
Indeed, there was a relaxed look about the team as they chatted with reporters even though Friday’s opponents, a Colombia team out to avenge their 2-1 loss to Brazil in the World Cup quarter-finals, are stern opposition.
Striker Radamel Falcao, who moved on Monday to Manchester United from Monaco, is back in the Colombia side after missing the World Cup through injury and will team up again with one of the success stories of the tournament in James Rodriguez.
