Real Madrid defender Marcelo believes Spain hold a lot of respect for World Cup hosts Brazil.
AS reports the left-back telling Brazilian publication O Globo of how the beaten Spain players paid tribute to the Brazilian victors after the Confederations Cup in 2013.
“The Spaniards have always respected the Brazil team. I remember after the Confederations Cup, a conversation with Iker Casillas, he told me that was why Brazil always had to be respected,” he said.
“I represent a country, a people. The pressure is much bigger, but the rewards are too,” Marcelo continued.
“It’s a big responsibility. The crowd have warmed to our team and the support helps in difficult times.
“At the Confederations Cup, when the fans sang the anthem a capella, it was like a goal for our team. We entered the pitch 1-0 up. It was awesome.”
Marcelo added that he hasn’t talked about Brazil’s first game at the tournament in which he will face Madrid colleague Luka Modric.
“Never. He’s one of the best midfielders in the world,” Marcelo added.
“They’re a very good team with quality players at some of the biggest teams in Europe, who are used to big games and playing under pressure.
“I have no doubt it will be a difficult game. I’ve never played at the World Cup but I’ve watched them. It’s a cliché but there are no easy games.”
