Atlético Mineiro goalkeeper Victor believes Brazil can use Galo’s 2013 Copa Libertadores triumphant as inspiration in their quest for World Cup glory.
Brazil came close to exiting their home tournament on Saturday as Chile hit the crossbar in the last minute of extra time before Luiz Felipe Scolari’s team held their nerve to win 3-2 on penalties.
Victor, who is likely to remain a reserve for Brazil throughout the tournament, believes it could be a sign.
He told Lancenet: “I think there is faith and superstition, but in my case I take the side of faith. I am religious and strengthen my spiritual side before games.”
God was certainly on Atlético’s side during their Libertadores campaign of 2013 as they came agonizingly close to going out of the tournament on several occasions before winning the biggest South American club competition.
Victor saved a penalty in the last minute of Galo’s match against Tijuana in the quarter-finals to ensure Galo progressed and he hopes Brazil can go on to glory after their Chile encounter.
He added: “In the case of Atlético, there were some signs that the quest was possible. That penalty against Tijuana after 48 minutes … It was something that indicated that we could fight for the title.
“On Saturday, that ball hit the crossbar after 119 minutes of the match. There I saw that Brazil is lucky and things are conspiring in our favour.
“Of course this is combined with the expertise of our players. Thus, Brazil enters with strength and sees every game as a cup final. The staff are much strengthened for the rest of the World Cup.”
