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Football: Brown's men to launch an offensive

Ken Gaunt
Tuesday 09 June 1998 00:02 BST
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GORDON DURIE yesterday confirmed that Scotland's main defensive tactic against Brazil will be to attack. "We have to attack Brazil in much the same way as they will try and do," he said yesterday.

"If we sit in and try and defend, then they have the players who can destroy you. We have to create chances and pose them problems in the process."

Durie and goalkeeper Jim Leighton are the only two survivors from the Italia 90 World Cup squad, and manager Craig Brown believes their experience will be vital against the holders at the Stade de France tomorrow.

Scotland lost 1-0 to Brazil eight years ago, with Aberdeen goalkeeper Leighton in goal. Durie, who was on the bench that day, is anxious to set the record straight and help the team to a famous victory.

"Hopefully I will get the nod, and it will be up to Kevin Gallacher and myself not only to get the goals but also put the Brazil defenders under pressure. We were a bit unfortunate to lose to them in 1990 and we are well prepared this time around.

"It is always a great experience playing the world champions, but facing them in the World Cup is a bit special. To be honest the players haven't really spoken about Brazil that much, although that will probably change from tomorrow onwards."

Scotland have been written off against Brazil by many people, and the players are anxious to prove the doubters wrong.

Brown said: "The squad are hurting a bit about what is being said about them. They have a great chance to display their character in this game as well as their technical ability.

"Take it from me, we are not a million miles away from Brazil. Our players are experienced, and if you look at our squad we have a team of winners. They are used to pressure games and big crowds. My team will not be unnerved by Brazil.

"The players aim to seize the chance with both hands and show they can play at the top level."

Brazil coach Mario Zagallo has been accused of bluffing after saying he did not know anything about the Scots.

"I am taking his remarks with a pinch of salt," said Brown. "It is just a smokescreen. He clearly knows everything about Scotland as you would expect from the manager of the world champions.

"I know how tough this game will be, because I am convinced Brazil will be the outstanding team of the tournament. This team compares favourably with the 1994 winning side - they have so many good players to choose from."

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