Coutinho Says Brazil ‘More Experienced’ After World Cup Heartache

Brazil schemer Philippe Coutinho says he and his teammates are stronger for their World Cup heartbreak this summer. The Seleção were among the favourites, but were beaten by Belgium in the quarter-finals. Coutinho says the squad is wiser for the experience, “It's a tournament that demands a lot. All the pressure put on it requires […]
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sambafoot_admin
2018-10-11 12:46:00

Brazil schemer Philippe Coutinho says he and his teammates are stronger for their World Cup heartbreak this summer. The Seleção were among the favourites, but were beaten by Belgium in the quarter-finals.

Coutinho says the squad is wiser for the experience, “It's a tournament that demands a lot. All the pressure put on it requires a lot even psychologically. Sure enough, the players leave more experienced.

“So I think I feel a bit more experienced after having participated in a World Cup.” However, the Barcelona man says thoughts have not yet turned to the next World Cup in Qatar in 2022.

“We always think game after game. We started a new cycle after the World Cup, I'm very happy to be here one more time. Thinking ahead we have important competitions, the Copa America is next. Until then we have to form a strong base.”

Coutinho also revealed that he has not spoken to Barca teammate Lionel Messi about the impending clasico with Argentina in Riyad on Tuesday, Messi will not feature for the Albiceleste.

“We do not talk much about the game. Although he is not present, it is sure to be a great game, a great clasico. I want to beat Argentina, whether with or without Messi, what matters most to me is to play a good game and win.”

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