Brazil defender Thiago Silva claims that his side is ready to face a strong Belgium squad in the quarter-finals.
Thiago helped Brazil secure a third successive 2-0 win on Monday as goals from Neymar and Roberto Firmino saw them advance from their last-16 meeting with Mexico in Samara. Up next for the five-time champions is a trip to Kazan on Friday to face Belgium, who staged a scintillating comeback from two down to defeat Japan 3-2 in their second-round tie. Tite’s men are being widely tipped to lift a sixth crown in Russia, especially with the likes of Germany, Argentina, Portugal and Spain already out, but Silva knows glory is far from guaranteed with Roberto Martinez’s talented side lying in wait.
“They are very strong physically and technically. Belgium deserve to play in the last 16,” Silva said. “It’s great because it’s a big game to play. I think that in all competitions, Brazil is the favourite. But we know that’s not enough. We have to work hard and give our best every game if we want to win the title. We’ll continue to work and rest well because Friday’s game will be even more difficult.”