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Lucio plays down Cristiano Ronaldo threat

Updated on: 25 June,2010 07:18 AM IST |
Agencies |

Lucio admits Ronaldo threat but stresses the key lies in defending as a team

Lucio admits Ronaldo threat but stresses the key lies in defending as a team

Numero uno: Brazil defender Lucio gentures during a practice session. pics/gettyimages

"Without a doubt he is a great player, he has been showing this for a long time," Lucio said. "We need to try to defend as a team, it's key we help each other and stay focused. We will have to pay attention to a player like Ronaldo and also to the others."

Lucio also said that he was not worried with Brazil's defensive mistakes which saw them concede in each of the first two games. He however, acknowledges the back line has not been perfect at the World Cup so far.

Brazil started the World Cup with victories against North Korea and Ivory Coast, but allowed a goal in each match in uncharacteristic defensive mistakes.

"No one likes to concede goals, but there is no need for drama," the Brazil captain said. "We always need to try to improve and seek perfection, and we hope the mistakes don't happen again from now on."

Lucio said it was important the mistakes didn't come in crucial moments. Brazil was up 2-0 when the Koreans scored in the opening match at Ellis Park, and ahead 3-0 when Didier Drogba scored for Ivory Coast on Sunday at Soccer City.

"We have been talking among ourselves (about the mistakes)," Lucio said. "Of course we are not satisfied with the goals, but they came at a time that we could allow them."

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