Brazil legend Cafu has claimed that his country has lost respect, following their exit from the Copa America.

The Selecao were dumped out of the tournament after a penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay in the quarter-finals.

It capped a miserable year, following their humiliation at the World Cup last summer, but Cafu is confident that they will be able to rediscover their best form.

"[Brazil] are lacking commitment and desire. They lost respect. Due the football we're playing the rivals no longer fear us," he told reporters.

"We went through a transition period but Brazil will be a team that imposes fear again. Those who despise us may be surprised."

Cafu won 142 caps for Brazil and helped the country to win two World Cups.