Brazilians not worried about winning ‘ugly’

PUERTO LA CRUZ: Brazil’s players are not worried about what the media has termed “ugly soccer” as long as they get the results.

Despite reaching the quarter-finals of the Copa America, Brazil’s performances have fallen far short of the stylish game with which they are traditionally associated.

The defending champions qualified in second place from Group B, behind Mexico, and all four of their goals have been scored by striker Robinho.

Coach Dunga has been heavily criticised in Brazil for fielding three defensive midfielders, which many feel inhibits the team’s creativity.

“Football is about the result and getting three points. I prefer the result. The important thing is that we’re winning,” said Anderson, one of three players who have been tried out in the attacking midfield role.

Santos leftback Kleber said it was possible to win playing attractive football but that he had already won titles in a team that did not play very well.

“And I don’t think our football is that ugly,” he added.

Midfielder Diego summed up the team’s thinking.

“We’re not here to play pretty football, we’re here to be champions,” he said