Brazil counts about 470,000 deaths by COVID-19. Well being specialists predict a 3rd wave of infections later this month.
Brazil’s star gamers have debated whether or not or not they need to play within the Copa America on dwelling soil however don’t plan to make any public statements on the matter till after their World Cup qualifying video games in opposition to Ecuador and Paraguay.
The Copa America, awarded to defending champion Brazil after Argentina and Colombia have been dropped as co-hosts, has turn into a contentious problem amid surging COVID-19 circumstances within the area.
Brazil coach Tite on Thursday mentioned the gamers had spoken to nationwide soccer confederation president Rogério Caboclo.
“They’ve an opinion, they uncovered it to the president … and they’ll expose it to the general public on the applicable time. That’s the reason our captain Casemiro is absent right now,” Tite advised a information convention when requested if his gamers had requested permission to skip the June 13-July 10 continental championship.
Brazil is ready to play Ecuador on Friday and Paraguay subsequent Tuesday in South American qualifying for the 2022 World Cup.
The South American soccer confederation selected Brazil as a alternative host earlier this week after Argentina was dropped due to the unfold of COVID-19. Colombia was eliminated as a co-host final month amid avenue protests in opposition to President Iván Duque.
Brazil gamers, executives and training workers have not spoken to the media because the resolution was introduced.
“We requested our athletes to focus solely on the match in opposition to Ecuador,” Tite mentioned on Thursday. “We now have a precedence now, to play effectively and beat Ecuador. We perceive that after the 2 rounds these conditions will probably be clear.”
“I’m not avoiding solutions and I’m giving information, with the understanding that I’ve,” Tite added. “Copa America is essential. However our match tomorrow is extra vital.”
Brazil counts about 470,000 deaths by COVID-19. Well being specialists predict a 3rd wave of infections later this month.