Dorival defends Vinícius: 'People expect the same performances as at Real'

With Real Madrid, Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo secured the Champions League title earlier this month. There is no time for a vacation, as the Copa América kicks off next Friday in the United States. Brazil's engine has yet to get going. Goals from Christian Pulisic and Rodrygo led to a draw in the final rehearsal against Team USA.

In Brazil, there was criticism of Vinícius' performance. 'People expect the same performances from Vinícius as at Real Madrid,' Dorival defended his star player. 'I think that will also happen at the important and decisive moments of the Copa América. Let's be patient and give this boy the chance to find his top form.'

Dorival also discussed Rodrygo, who formed an attack with Vinícius and Raphinha. 'Rodrygo is getting better all the time. The more he plays, the more important he becomes for the team. When he has the ball at his feet, there's a good chance he will make a play and score goals. He has proven that at Real Madrid, but also in Brazil.'

Brazil still has plenty of time to prepare for the Copa América. In the night of Monday, June 25 to Tuesday, June 26, the Seleção will play their first match against Costa Rica.

The buildup to the tournament has been challenging, with mixed results in the friendlies. The draw against the United States highlighted areas where the team needs improvement, particularly in maintaining focus and cohesion throughout the match. Despite these challenges, the Brazilian squad remains optimistic.

Dorival emphasized the importance of unity and confidence within the team. 'We have a group of talented players who can make a difference. It's crucial that we stay together and support each other. The Copa América is a tough competition, but we are prepared to give our best and fight for the title,' he said.

As the tournament approaches, the coaching staff is working on fine-tuning strategies and ensuring that players are in peak physical condition. Training sessions have been intense, focusing on both tactical drills and building team chemistry. The players are motivated, understanding the weight of representing Brazil in such a prestigious tournament.

Fans are eagerly anticipating the team's performance, hoping to see Brazil reclaim their dominance in South American football. The Copa América will be a significant test for both the experienced players and the new talents in the squad. Vinícius and Rodrygo, in particular, are seen as key figures who can inspire and lead the team to victory.

The excitement is building as Brazil prepares to take on Costa Rica in their opening match. The team's journey in the Copa América promises to be an exciting spectacle, filled with challenges and opportunities to showcase their skills on the international stage.

Al Hilal makes an offer for Virgil van Dijk

Virgil van Dijk, 33-year-old Dutch center-back, is nearing the end of his contract with Liverpool and has received a €20 million net salary offer from Al Hilal.

European champion Álvaro Negredo retires at the age of 39

The striker, who was playing for Valladolid, had not featured since last season. Throughout his career, he played for clubs such as Manchester City and Besiktas.

José Mourinho suspended for four games after controversy with Galatasaray

José Mourinho has been handed a four-match suspension following a controversy after the Istanbul derby, where he was accused of racism by Galatasaray.

Arsenal is warned after PSV's brilliant victory over Juventus

The Champions League draw has also been closely followed by the media in England. Arsenal has been paired with PSV. While The Gunners are considered favorites, the club must be cautious not to underestimate the reigning Dutch champions.

Gimenez immediately makes his mark in Milan: 'He gets it right away'

Santiago Gimenez made an immediate impact on Wednesday night in his debut for AC Milan. Thanks to an assist for fellow newcomer João Félix, the striker, who joined from Feyenoord, earned praise right away.

Steven Gerrard is no longer the head coach of Al Ettifaq

Steven Gerrard has left Al Ettifaq by mutual agreement after a disappointing tenure in Saudi Arabia. The former Liverpool captain, who took charge in July 2023, struggled to deliver consistent results, leaving the club in 12th place.

Saudi Arabia offers €350M for Vinícius Jr

Saudi Arabian clubs are reportedly targeting Real Madrid star Vinícius Jr. as their latest high-profile signing. Al Ahli is prepared to offer €350 million for the Brazilian forward, with Al Nassr and Al Hilal also showing interest.

MLS club wants to sign Neymar from Al Hilal

The Brazilian forward has a contract until June, but Al Hilal is willing to let him leave now. Chicago Fire has reportedly already met with Neymar's representatives.

Man Utd ties one of its few bright spots to the club until 2030

Amad Diallo is now a Manchester United player until mid-2030. The English record champions announced on Thursday evening that the 22-year-old Ivorian will remain at Old Trafford for the foreseeable future.

Neuer punished with a two-match suspension in the German Cup

Manuel Neuer, Bayern Munich's legendary goalkeeper, received the first red card of his illustrious career during the German Cup round of 16 against Bayer Leverkusen.

France hosts Israel under maximum security for politically charged match

France hosts Israel today in a match that will feature an unprecedented police presence. Highly controversial, the game is marked by pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian movements.

Oosting forced to make changes and surprises with starting lineup against Nice

FC Twente coach Joseph Oosting was forced to make multiple changes to his lineup in the Europa League match against OGC Nice. Due to the absence of key players Mees Hilgers (not fit), Sem Steijn (sick), and Lars Unnerstall, a surprising starting eleven will take the field at 6:45 pm.

Sergio Ramos? Whenever I had players like that, I sent them away

The former Liverpool coach once again criticized the ex-Real Madrid center-back over an incident in which he injured Mohamed Salah during the Champions League final in 2022, which he lost with the Reds.

Erik ten Hag responds to Mourinho: 'He will succeed, and so will we'

The Portuguese coach, now at Fenerbahçe, will face Manchester United again this Thursday in the Europa League.

Good news for Barcelona: Olmo returns to the training field

Dani Olmo has rejoined Barcelona's group training. The midfielder missed the last seven matches due to a muscle injury he sustained on September 16 in the match against Girona.

Top Countries

Around the web

World Cup winner sounds the alarm: 'France are playing football from another era'

The football played by Didier Deschamps' France belongs to another era, according to Christophe Dugarry. The 53-year-old former international, who earned 55 caps for his country, has had enough of what he describes as the reactive style of play that Les Bleus have been producing for the past twelve years.

Dean Huijsen chose Spain to fulfil his dream of playing for Real Madrid

Dean Huijsen’s dream of playing for Real Madrid played a role in his decision to choose the Spanish national team. According to Spanish media, he admitted this during conversations with the Spanish football federation. After his performances in the Nations League double-header against the Netherlands, it seems the Madrid club has been sufficiently convinced.

Dyche slams Kompany: '127 million, 24 points, and Bayern appoint him'

Sean Dyche has been out of a coaching job for a few months now, after being shown the door by Everton. In Burnley, the man with the distinctive voice remains a club legend, and in his recently launched radio show, he defended his track record at Turf Moor.

Platini relieved after acquittal: 'I know it was a conspiracy'

Michel Platini spoke to the press after being definitively acquitted of corruption on Tuesday. The former UEFA president expressed a sense of relief.

Spectacular first half just enough for Germany against Italy

Germany secured a place in the Nations League semi-finals at the expense of Italy on Sunday evening. After Thursday’s 2-1 win in Milan, a dominant first half from Julian Nagelsmann’s side was enough to see them through, with the match eventually ending in a 3-3 draw.

Chelsea and Man Utd trigger release clause in Sancho's contract

If Chelsea decide not to sign Jadon Sancho permanently from Manchester United, the club will have to pay six million euros to Old Trafford. According to all major media outlets in England, this clause is included in the loan agreement. Essentially, it’s a kind of penalty clause.

Alexander-Arnold close to signing €15 million-per-year contract

Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to join Real Madrid on a five-year deal worth €15 million per season. With his Liverpool contract expiring, the 26-year-old will leave Anfield on a free transfer, marking a major shift in both his career and Madrid’s long-term project.

Patience in Turin has run out: Juventus swaps Motta for a familiar face

Thiago Motta has been sacked as Juventus manager after just over eight months in charge. The position of the former Italian international had become untenable in recent weeks due to disappointing results. Igor Tudor will replace him at the club, where Teun Koopmeiners plays.

Greek youngsters roll over Scotland, red-carded Trauner the scapegoat for Austria

Greece, Turkey, and Serbia will compete in League A of the next Nations League. The countries won convincingly on Sunday, securing a spot among the top nations. Feyenoord’s Gernot Trauner played a negative leading role for Austria.

Tuchel puts relations with Arsenal on edge after comment about Rice

Thomas Tuchel has stated that he will not give in to demands from clubs to rest players during international matches. The new England manager pointed to Declan Rice as an example, noting that the midfielder played over an hour in a Champions League match that had already been effectively decided. "I didn’t get the feeling they were thinking about us then," Tuchel remarked.