The game is about results, not style, says Zico

ZICO has reminded Brazil’s detractors that flair teams rarely win the World Cup. The Japan coach knows that better than most as he played in three tournaments without getting a winners’ medal.

He was therefore quick to point out that those who have been disappointed with a lack of samba soccer from Carlos Alberto Parreira’s side may still have been watching the future champions.

He said: “If you look at history, in 1974 the Dutch played some really good football but they didn’t win the World Cup.

“It was the same story in 1954 when Hungary were the team that played the best football but didn’t win.

“Stylish football is one thing but it is not always the team that plays the best football that wins. The game is about results, not style.”

That applies to Zico’s own position as Japan know they must defy the odds just to stay in the competition.

Today’s task in Dortmund is not only to beat reigning champions Brazil but to do so by a margin that will enable them to climb above both Australia and Croatia, who play in Stuttgart.

Zico said: “To go into the last game with a chance of qualifying was not something I had been thinking about when the tournament started.

“Of course we have to play strong opponents but as long as there is a chance the team will fight and never give up. It is important that the players know what they have to do and I think they do understand that. They know they have to win.”

Brazil manager Parreira admits the game is little more than a run-out for his players — but insists the match that follows will shape the favourites’ World Cup destiny.

He said: “The next round and the quarter-finals are the most difficult in the World Cup — more difficult than the semi-finals or the final.

“That is because the players know that if you lose a game in the group stage you can still go through. Lose in the next round, however, and you go home. That makes the players more nervous so you have to become a psychologist. If you reach the semi-finals you are only a few days away from the end of the tournament so it is easier for the players.”