Brazil must learn from defeats – Dunga

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Brazil coach Dunga says his side must take positives from their recent Copa America disappointment and develop the mental strength necessary to carry them through to World Cup 2018.

The Selecao suffered a penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay in the quarter-finals of last month’s Copa America and return to competitive action in October as they kick off qualification with a trip to Santiago to face South American champions Chile.

Dunga sees Conmebol’s marathon qualification process as a chance for his side to prove they can bounce back and return to the top of the international game.

“It will be a great opportunity and a great challenge for the Brazilian team,” the Selecao boss told reporters at the World Cup qualifying draw.

“To win, teams must learn to suffer… History tells us that a team is made up of quality players, but they must also have personality, determination and know how to suffer.

"These players are under a lot of pressure. Qualifying has always been tough and it will be all the more so this time round, because the other teams have improved and have a lot of players plying their trade in Europe."

Dunga will be without suspended skipper Neymar for the clash with Chile and the meeting with Venzuela in round two, after the Barcelona star was sent off against Colombia at the Copa America.

However, the World Cup winner is confident others can rise to the occasion.

“Everyone would like to have Neymar, but Brazil have 22 other players who can fill-in in his absence. We have to play well, win and await his return,” Dunga said.

Neymar will be with us throughout the rest of the rounds, so we have to think of a whole, not just about one or two matches.”