Brazil's 2-1 World Cup qualifying defeat against modest Paraguay on Tuesday brought a predictable avalanche of criticism from their media yesterday. The Brazilians' first defeat in 21 years against Paraguay was described as a "disgrace" by the Jornal dos Sports while O Globo asked: "When is the team going to improve?" O Dia, another Rio de Janeiro-based newspaper, called for the sacking of coach Wanderley Luxemburgo. Tuesday's result left Brazil with two wins, two draws and one defeat from their five qualifying matches.
The media reaction reflected the feelings of the Brazilian public, who have become disillusioned with the team and its mundane, colourless style.
"The Brazil team maintained its routine of mediocrity," complained O Globo, giving Luxemburgo three out of 10 for his performance. Commentator Fernando Calazans complained Luxemburgo had simply followed a recent trend in Brazilian football by filling his team with midfield destroyers rather than creators.
Lee Carsley: Blackburn have confirmed they are ready to listen to offers for Lee Carsley (26) after the midfielder handed in a transfer request. The Republic of Ireland international joined Blackburn for £3.3 million from Derby in March 1999.
Highbury youth policy: Liam Brady, head of youth development at Arsenal, has defended the club's policy of bringing in overseas stars ahead of local youngsters. Brady said: "You can't blame Arsene Wenger or any manager for bringing foreign players in - they've proved they are better quality."
