Casemiro calls for Brazil to step forward as they close in on World Cup qualification

SAO PAULO – Veteran midfielder Casemiro said Brazil will look to rediscover their attacking instincts when they meet Paraguay in a World Cup qualifier on June 10.

Brazil held Ecuador to a goalless draw in Guayaquil on June 5 in Carlo Ancelotti’s debut as coach, showing defensive discipline but little attacking threat.

Casemiro, recalled by Ancelotti to the national squad after an absence of almost two years, said Brazil would need to take a more proactive approach to break down an in-form Paraguay at the Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo.

“Each game is a different story,” said the 33-year-old, who played under Ancelotti at Real Madrid before his 2022 move to English Premier League giants Manchester United.

“It will be a game with a lot of possession and Paraguay wanting to play on the counter-attack. We will need to be switched on mentally and take our chances when they come.

“Brazil’s main characteristic is always to attack, but having defensive solidity is already a step forward. There’s no point in me saying we’re playing well, but the team’s attitude in the last game was good. Now we have to prioritise the offensive aspect a little more.”

Casemiro also praised Ancelotti’s early impact on the squad, saying the Italian, who turns 66 on the day of the clash, had brought “experience” and “peace” to a team in transition. The former Sao Paulo and Porto player said he is enjoying his best form in years after a turbulent spell in his second season at United.

“This has been one of the most important years of my career,” he said.

“I never stopped working and that has allowed me to come back stronger. Hard work always pays off and now I’m here, not because I know the coach, but because I earned it.”