Brazil eyeing competitive squad for 2012 Olympics

Published: 06 Dec 2011 - 21:17:08

Rss feed

Brazil eyeing competitive squad for 2012 Olympics

Brazil coach Mano Menezes said Tuesday he would focus next year on preparing a competitive squad for next year's London Olympics, which will serve as the basis for the side that will compete in the 2014 World Cup.

"The team (for the World Cup) has not been selected. We'll make our choice after the (London) Olympics," he told a press conference.

Brazil are hosting the World Cup in three years time and Menezes is gradually building a new-look squad, with the likes of Damiao, Neymar, Ganso and Fernandinho given the chance to shine.

Menezes said the main squad would play a friendly international against an undetermined opponent in February and would include a "good percentage of Olympic-age players."

"For the (London) Olympics (from next July 27 to August 12) we have a clear idea of what we are going to do. We have in mind a team to have a great Olympic Games," he added, without elaborating.

Since he took over as national coach 500 days ago, Menezes has notched up 12 victories, five draws and three losses.

Brazil have won their last five games, albeit all against weaker sides except for Mexico which they beat 2-1

Menezes however came under fire notably after Brazil's shock defeat to Paraguay in the Copa America in July and losses in friendly internationals against France and Germany earlier this year.