Outgoing Brazil coach Tite responds to criticism over defeat

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3:32 PM ET

Rob DawsonCorrespondent

EDUCATION CITY, Qatar — Brazil coach Tite has hit back at suggestions that a lack of organization in the dying minutes of extra time contributed to their World Cup exit.

Brazil were leading Croatia 1-0 just four minutes from the end of their quarter-final when Bruno Petkovic equalized after a quick counterattack.

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Despite being able to see the game, Brazil found themselves four against four at the back and once Petkovic took advantage to make it 1-1, Croatia used their chance in the penalty shootout to reserve their place in the semi-finals.

“I don’t agree that we were disorganized,” Tite said of Croatia’s late equalizer.

“We were defensive, we had players who put a lot of pressure up front. We tried to keep the game going and we managed to close the middle of the field but I understand the pain and all the criticism people have towards my choices.”

Tite led Brazil to the quarter-finals of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

Brazil were one of Qatar’s favorites before the tournament but have now been knocked out four times in the quarter-finals since winning the trophy in 2002.

They also again failed to beat a European nation in the Round of 16 after last doing so against Germany in the 2002 final.

WORLD CUP QUARTER-FINALS

“I think we have to be ready to share our joy and also willing to share our sadness and I think there is a new generation of players who will find strength in adversity and I understand that I am the most responsible “, added Tite.

“It’s not about being a villain or a hero, that doesn’t exist in sport. It’s football, sometimes we win, sometimes we lose.

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Tite later confirmed that he would leave his post after the World Cup exit. The 61-year-old took over in 2016 but announced before the tournament that he would leave once Brazil’s run in Qatar was over.

“It’s a painful loss but I’m at peace with myself, it’s the end of the cycle,” he said.

“It was a full four-year process. Before it was a recovery process, but now there’s been a whole streak. I can’t make an assessment of the whole cycle, but over time, you and other people will.”

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