PASADENA, Calif.—Holy injuries! Six in total so far have impacted Brazil’s 23-man roster ahead of their Copa America Centenario debut against Ecuador on Saturday (10pm ET | FS1, Univision).
The list is long and includes some of the best talent for Brazil: Luis Gustavo (replaced by Walace), Kaká (replaced by Paulo Henrique Ganso), Douglas Costa (replaced by Kaká before his own injury), Rafinha (replaced by Lucas Moura), Éderson (replaced by Marcelo Grohe), and Ricardo Oliviera (replaced by Jonas).
For many, the multiple cuts may suggest that Brazil enter the tournament debilitated, which could justify a modest campaign.
However, for head coach Dunga there are no excuses, and Brazil have a huge responsibility on their shoulders.
"We lost many players but we have others who have high quality and have the great opportunity to play for their national team in Copa America Centenario,” Dunga said in Friday’s press conference at the Rose Bowl. “We are very motivated and I’m confident with the players I have.”
Dunga acknowledged that the weight of history will always be a factor for the national team, so the pressure is on at all levels for the Selecao.
"When we suit up in a Brazil jersey, the pressure starts,” Dunga said. “When we come in to a practice we all look good and relaxed, but once we put the jersey on suddenly someone’s hair is all messy, another player’s arm is hurting, etc., and we have to stand for it and keep working, there is no other way."
"We all absorb the pressure. Some players have more experience than others, but they are all good players."
Although Dunga highlighted the great spirit of the squad despite the adversity, he did admit that it was hard to manage the dynamic during training sessions as the new roster additions were arriving more or less daily at this point.
“The group understand the dynamic, but we had to repeat some sessions for the new players that were added every two days as we needed to bring them up to speed.”
With central defender Miranda still questionable for the game, Dunga will most likely rely on Marquinhos to complete the defense line alongside Gil, Dani Alves and Filipe Luis. The team is completed by Casemiro, Elias, Renato Augusto, Philippe Coutinho, Willian and Jonas.
As for the opponent, Brazil’s coach recognizes that they’ll face a tough team who deserve their respect due to the momentum Ecuador have at the moment in World Cup qualifying.
“Ecuador is a very balanced team. They have many players in all positions, with good technique, speed and physical strength. Collectively, Ecuador is very strong.”
