Brazil have secured a place in their seventh World Cup final thanks to a 1-0 win over Turkey. But manager Luiz Felipe Scolari was quick to praise his opponents following a closely-fought contest.
“I would like to congratulate Turkey. To be among the best four of the World Cup is a great achievement” he said.
“They play hard, they play different. From midfield to attack they are a very good team” he added.
Scolari said that Brazil had prepared for the game well and – in typically flamboyant style – claimed that his side were disappointed not to have scored more goals.
“Turkey are a dangerous team but we learned the way they play. But we expected to win by more” he said.
Goal-scorer Ronaldo also gave credit to the Turks.
“Turkey are a well organised team and deserved to reach the semi-finals” he said.
And the striker revealed that the inspiration behind his 49th minute toe-poked winner came from another Brazilian legend.
“It was a Romario-style goal” he said. The Inter player added that Brazil should not lose their concentration and must remain focused on Sunday’s final against Germany.
“We mustn’t think this tournament is over and let our heads go into the clouds. We must concentrate on the final” he said.
