Menezes defend the tasteless, Argentina

Posted on | Saturday, July 9, 2011 | No Comments

Brazilian coach Mano Menezes think the criticism directed against Argentina after their 0-0 draw with Colombia in the Copa America is unfair.

The hosts Argentina were disposed of before the tournament favorites along with Brazil, but not on behalf of winning their first two games, drawings, and in Bolivia and Colombia - the teams that were expected to win comfortably.

In the immediate post-match of their second draw, Argentina has been subjected to a barrage of criticism in the media which was clearly unimpressed with the performance of the team and coach Sergio Batista tactics.

Speaking before the actual play of his team against Paraguay, Menezes believes that competition for the Copa America is closer than many suggest, and British claims that the credit for his performance against Argentina.

"With these games, we see a very open Copa America," said Menezes to the official website of the Copa America.

"Theoretically, it should be stressed that Argentina [should be the favorites] for its history, its players and the local state.

"[But] you still encounter difficulties in Argentina, was closer to defeat than victory, but one must not overlook the Columbia, which was a good game.

"And 'more technical equality [between the teams of today], and we need to pay attention to the work of all he is doing."

Brazil has also experienced a low start after a 0-0 draw with Venezuela in their opening match of Group B, and seek to make amends against Paraguay on Saturday.

Menezes acknowledges that his team always expected to win, but warns Paraguay could be a considerable threat.

"We think of Brazil, of course, we [the players] to make the game better and more valid, [but] Paraguay is an opponent who can provide the quality of the game with Brazil."

After his match against Paraguay, Brazil to end their group campaign with a match against Ecuador, before the quarterfinals begin on July 16.