World Cup

Glenn Hoddle: 'Brazil can't defend'

By Giuseppe Labellarte, Reporter | 03 July 2014

Glenn Hoddle criticises Brazil's defence, claiming that their backline will prove their undoing in the World Cup quarter-final clash against Colombia.

Glenn Hoddle has claimed that several of Brazil's backline players "can't defend", which will ultimately prove their undoing in the World Cup quarter-final clash against Colombia.

Luis Felipe Scolari's side have conceded just three goals in the tournament so far, but the former England manager believes that Los Cafeteros, who have reached the last eight with four wins in four games and 11 goals scored, will push the Selecao to the limit.

Writing for bookmakers William Hill, Hoddle explained: "It's tough for [Brazil], because although they appear to have a good defensive record, teams have been able to put Brazil on the back foot and I feel their defence will ultimately prove to be their Achilles Heel.

"In Dani Alves, Marcelo and David Luiz they have three out of their four defenders who don't defend! Or simply can't defend! Only Thiago Silva is a dedicated defender and he defends by instinct. Eventually they are going to be found out.

"Colombia are a really, really good team, wanting to play the game in the right way, with a lovely balance between attack and defence."

Brazil play Colombia tomorrow in Fortaleza, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.