Defeated by Paraguay, Brazil's coach says 15 players were sick

SANTIAGO - After the defeat of Brazil against Paraguay in quarter-finals, Brazilian coach Dunga said 15 players got sick affecting their performance in the decisive game, Copa America's official website reported Sunday.

Brazil's national soccer coach Dunga (L) gives the thumbs up to a man at Guarulhos International airport, during the arrival of the squad in Sao Paulo, Brazil, June 28, 2015.  [Photo/Agencies]

Last Saturday Brazil was defeated by Paraguay with a score of 3-4 in penalties. After the defeat, coach Dunga said "I do not want to sound as if I am excusing but 15 players got a virus."

Dunga explained that in the last days, he had to restrict training sessions, adding that in the match against Paraguay, "we needed speed but we did not have it."

"We tried to neutralize their main play, which was air game. They only headed two times," he said.

He added: "15 players got a virus in the last days, we had to restrict training sessions. Headache, fever and vomiting. It was a match were we needed speed but we did not have it."

"Historically, Copa America has always been difficult for Brazil. But when we lose, people always say it is because some player is missing. Neymar is important for Barcelona and for the national team, but we have quality players. Lack of experience in Copa America and in qualifying stage, so that is why this tournament was very important for us, so we could gain experience towards qualifying stage," he said.

"We knew a mistake would be fatal and we made it," said Dunga adding that "penalties are a complicated circumstance for the players."