FIGTHING FOR STARTING: Brazil’s Robinho (left) and Neymar (right) talk with coach Mano Menezes after a training session in Campana. — AFP photo
CAMPANA, Argentina: Brazil’s Robinho appears to be fighting for a starting place as coach Mano Menezes ponders his options for Saturday’s Copa America showdown with Paraguay.
Robinho flopped – though so did his teammates – in Sunday’s opening draw with modest Venezuela, but Paraguay and Ecuador also parted goalless to leave everything to play for in Group B. Menezes tried out a few variations during training Wednesday at Campana, north of Buenos Aires, and although the first team practice match line-up was the same as for the Venezuelans he later sent Lucas and Elano into the fray in place of Ramires and Robinho.
Both Lucas and Elana came on for the final quarter hour against Venezuela at La Plata and striker Fred also had a run out – indeed it was he who replaced Robinho with Lucas later replacing Pato, who did at least carve out a number of chances.
Menezes also ensured the defence had a spot of practice preparing to keep out set pieces with Paraguayan strikers Lucas Barrios and Roque Santa Cruz both dangerous in the air.
The Brazil coach, who replaced Dunga after the World Cup, where Brazil lost to Holland in the quarters, will only unveil his team just ahead of the game in Cordoba. — AFP