Serbia boss Dragan Stojkovic has laughed off claims Brazil sent a drone to spy on them.
And he insists his biggest concern is dealing with Brazil’s wealth of attacking talent including Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Richarlison and Neymar. Serbia take on Brazil on Thursday in the Lusail Iconic Stadium after the two clubs trained at next-door facilities in Doha prompting claims of spying.
But boss Stojkovic responded: “I don’t believe they spied on us. Why would they spy on us? They are the football power. I don’t think they sent a drone to spy on us. It’s fake news, so to speak. Even if they did send a drone I don’t know what they would see - not very much to be honest.”
Serbia lost 2-0 to Brazil in Russia 2018 in their last group game and have not beaten them in 88 years. But Stojkovic’s side have only lost two matches in their last 16 internationals across all competitions.
And Stojkovic, who is likely to have Aleksandar Mitrovic on the bench after the Fulham striker's return from a foot injury, refuses to be daunted about Brazil's awesome firepower even though they may play four upfront.
He added: “Brazil is a great team, for me one of the best in the world. They have a golden generation of players. But we will try to be a good opponent for Brazil. They have a chance to win but we also have a chance to win.
“We are not afraid of anyone in the world - including Brazil. Brazil have really high-quality players - Vinicius, Raphinha, Richarlison and Neymar - they are all offensive players. But it is not important just how Brazil play, it is important how Serbia plays.
“We need to be concentrated for the full game and to try and stop them the proper and intelligent way. We need to play zonal marking, it is not possible to run and follow every player, this is not my style.”
Laidback Stojkovic insisted he wouldn’t lose sleep over facing Brazil’s firepower. He smiled: “Just imagine being Italy sitting back home watching TV instead.”
Former Southampton star Dusan Tadic hopes Serbia can put on a decent performance despite the odds being stacked against them.
He said: “We want to make our country proud and play our style of football. Courage and aggression is important but in the end intelligence and good passing are things to make a difference.”
