The Chelsea ace has expressed his sadness at the Selecao’s elimination in Chile but urged his team-mates to lift themselves for World Cup qualification
Brazil star Willian has admitted his heartache at Brazil’s Copa America quarter-final defeat to Paraguay, revealing that he endured a sleepless night after the Selecao’s penalty shootout failure in Concepcion.
The five-time world champions arrived in Chile as favourites to lift the trophy, after racking up 10 consecutive Chevrolet Brasil Global Tour victories under new coach Dunga.
However, Brazil bowed out after losing 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw with Paraguay and Willian was devastated by the Selecao’s failure to claim a ninth South America crown.
“Everyone is sad about the defeat,” the attacker told reporters in Rio de Janeiro.
“It was a very long night, I could not sleep. I kept thinking about the game. But we must move forward. Now we must lift our heads as there it a lot more to come. “
Defender Miranda, who took over as captain in Chile following Neymar’s tournament-ending suspension, echoed the Chelsea ace’s sentiments.
“It’s sad, unfortunately things did not go as the team wanted,” the centre-half added.
“We came here looking to change the picture and but did not happen. Now it is time to raise your head and think of World Cup qualifying.”