2018 FIFA WC: Coutinho is ready to get slammed by the critics

 

XtraTime Web Desk: Phillipe Coutinho is ready to face any sort of backlash from the critics after Brazil slumped to a 2-1 defeat in the hands of Belgium.

A Fernandinho own goal and Kevin De Bruyne’s fine strike helped Belgium to a 2-1 win in Kazan, where substitute Renato Augusto’s second-half header gave Tite’s men a breathing space to generate a comeback.

However, despite of creating numerous chances Brazil could only find a consolation and were unable to find an equaliser despite a nervy finish to a competitive encounter. This is the fourth time in a row Brazil fell short to an European, yet again in the knockout stages of the World Cup.

 




 

“We wanted to go all the way to the final but we’ve given our best shot. Everyone gave everything,” the Barcelona playmaker told.

 

“I’m sure will be beaten up [by criticism] from all sides. Life goes on, that’s football. You win and you lose.

 

“We’re sad because we wanted to win badly, like all Brazil. Unfortunately, we couldn’t.”

 

The 2018 World Cup may have been the last for several Brazil players, with nine of their 23-man squad in their 30s.

 

Defender Miranda, 33, was unwilling to confirm his international future, unsure whether it was his last appearance at the showpiece tournament.

 




 

“It’s hard to talk about it because all players here are part of a generation,” he said.

 

“I won’t say goodbye, but I also won’t confirm that I’ll be there for the next World Cup.”