Brazil coach Scolari unfazed by Russian blip

International friendlies Brazil 1 - 1 RussiaCanada 0 - 2 BelarusLONDON – Luiz Felipe Scolari denies he is concerned over Brazil’s potential to challenge for the 2014 World Cup, despite the Selecao requiring a late Fred goal to salvage a 1-1 draw with Russia on Monday night.Scolari made three changes to the side that drew with Italy last week, with defenders Thiago Silva and Marcelo and veteran midfielder Kaka earning their place in the starting line-up.Brazil failed to exert their dominance early on at Stamford Bridge as they did in the first-half against Italy, but Scolari believes his side’s woes were more of a reflection on Fabio Capello’s well-drilled Russian outfit.“I think that from the game against Italy to this on here we kept the same level, but we were playing against a well-organised team,” Scolari said.“They are one of the [53] European countries trying to qualify for the World Cup. They kept the ball quite a well and because of a lot of factors we maybe let that goal in because they marked higher that the Italians and pressed too.Brazil’s ability to win their home World Cup next year has come under scrutiny, particularly as they have only managed one win from their last six matches.But Scolari believes Brazil are capable of taking out the Confederations Cup, which begins in June, to restore the Selecao’s reputation.“I believe that we already have the support and the trust of the Brazilian fans,” the coach continued. “All we need to do is continue to work with the group.

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Brazil coach Scolari unfazed by Russian blip