Militão admits surprise at being chosen over Daniel Alves

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Chosen to take the place of injured right-back Danilo in Brazil’s 1-0 victory over Switzerland, Éder Militão was surprised. Tite has another player of the position in his squad, the experienced Daniel Alves, 39 years old, but he preferred to choose the 24-year-old defender.

“I didn’t expect it. With all due respect to Daniel, I didn’t expect it. But the teacher made the decision, and everyone is there to help. Whether it’s me or Daniel, everyone will do their best. Now it’s time to follow, see the teacher’s decision, whether I continue or not,” he said.

Currently a Real Madrid midfielder, Militão even played at right back when he became a professional at São Paulo and also played the role in some matches in Porto. In Brazil’s recent friendly with Ghana, he was used in the sector as a test.

Tite ended up taking Daniel Alves to Qatar, the most contested name among the 26 named. With Danilo injured in the first round, in the 2-0 triumph over Serbia, the expectation was that the veteran would be used in his fourth Cup. Instead, a young man made his debut.

“I’m very happy with the match. It was a job that I hadn’t done for a while. But, with everyone’s help, I felt very comfortable, it was a good match. I’m very happy for the debut, for the victory and for the classification”, said Militão.

With two wins in two rounds, Brazil is classified for the round of 16 of the World Cup. The team will end its participation in Group G next Friday (2), against Cameroon. Danilo –as well as Neymar, another injured– will remain out.

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