London Olympics litmus test for Brazil

Brazil head coach Mano Menezes has vowed to build a strong side for World Cup 2014.

Brazil are under heavy scrutiny after failing to go beyond the quarter-finals at World Cup 2010 in South Africa and, more recently, at the Copa America.

Menezes is confident that Brazil will hit top form at the home World Cup and said the recovery will begin at the London Olympic Games.

“In 2010 we will have more definitions, visible matters which will appear on the foundations we have laid,” he told SporTV.

“And this leaves the fans a bit more secure about their expectations for the national team.”

“They can continue trusting our work, we will have a very strong team for the Olympic Games, in London.”

“After this, we will focus on the World Cup, with our working group very defined. It will be possible to watch Brazil playing again against big opponents and with the same winning capacity.”

Menezes, 49, refuses to be drawn when asked about his side’s chances of winning the gold medal.

“We need to put together a good team, capable of fighting for an Olympic medal,” Menezes said.

“Only in London will we know whether we have a chance of fighting for a gold medal. Until then, it is all conjecture.”

“We know how football is. We need to work to make these things happen.”