Brazil left back Marcelo boosted his hopes of making Brazil’s World Cup squad next year with a performance against Russia which earned lavish praise from coach Luiz Felipe Scolari.
Scolari said that before the match he had doubts about the Real Madrid’s defensive abilities, but those had been laid to rest by his efforts in the 1-1 draw against Russia.
“Everyone says Marcelo attacks well but has problems when it comes to marking,” Scolari told reporters.
“Today, his performance was balanced, he attacked when he had to attack and marked well, so we have found another player for the team.”
“He has skill, he can dribble, he surpassed expectations,” added Scolari.
Scolari has yet to win in three outings since being appointed for a second stint in charge but said he was pleased with his progress as he builds a team for next year’s World Cup, where Brazil will try and win a sixth world title on home soil.