Brazil coach Carlos Alberto
Parreira insists the favourites tag given to his team does not mean they are
destined for World Cup glory in the summer.
The current holders are seen by many as clear favourites to retain their title
in Germany, but the 62-year-old is being cautious.
"I don't like being favourites because it can damage the team," he told
newspaper Lance!
"Every time a team goes to a World Cup as the favourites to win the
tournament, they face difficulties.
"Recently, in 2002, we had the cases of France and Argentina. The French did
not win a match and also didn't score a goal."
Brazil head into the tournament after winning the CONMEBOL Zone qualifying
group, and are also current Copa America and Confederations Cup holders.
However Parreira believes his team will not have an easy ride in a World Cup
group that also includes Japan, Australia and Croatia.
"Croatia qualified easily and have a very strong defence, while Australian
players aren't stupid at all and several of them play in Europe," Parreira
said.
"And Japan also made it into the World Cup with a vastly experienced team who
are playing in their third finals and have Zico, who is an excellent coach."
Parreira also hinted that Lyon's Fred could be set for a call-up as a possible
replacement for injured Real Betis forward Ricardo Oliveira.
"I like Fred very much and, at this moment, he is the most likely player to
win Oliveira's place," he added.
Oliveira is expected to be out for the rest of the season after undergoing
knee surgery.
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