The Brazil captain believes that the team"s solidarity and performance of the national anthem can continue to have an impact upon World Cup games.
Before the hosts" 3-1 win against Croatia, the hairs on the back necks stood up all around the world, as the Brazilian players and fans in the Itaquerão Stadium belted out the second verse without any backing music.
Silva said: “The [national] anthem is part of the Brazilian team. We created a new ritual, entering with the arm on the [teammate’s] shoulder, like the time in school, uniformed. And I think the anthem sung by the crowd influences a lot. Opponents are now a little more prepared for it, but I believe the nerves and respect really hits them."
