GB’s Pearce cites Brazil as example

Stuart Pearce believes the British public could learn a lesson from the way Brazil are preparing for their Olympic odyssey.

Five-times World Cup winners, the legendary South Americans are yet to strike gold in this competition.

However, they have already been installed as favourites by the bookmakers to end that barren streak in London this summer, bringing with them a squad that includes tournament star name Neymar, plus Manchester United defender Rafael and in-demand Porto forward Hulk.

Indeed, as Pearce notes, only one of their 18-man party is yet to gain a senior cap, ensuring they will provide a significant test when they take on Team GB in a warm-up at Middlesbrough on Friday.

“They can teach us something in terms of the desperation of all their players and pride to play not just for Brazil, but at the Olympic Games,” said Pearce.

“If you read articles in this country it is seen as just for taking part, just for fun, just for everything apart from having a real go at trying to win the competition.

“This Brazil team only have one player that hasn’t been capped at senior international level.

“That tells you they are not afraid to put their younger players into the main side to gain experience and also that they are taking it seriously.”

Pearce regards Spain as Brazil’s nearest challengers, with GB next in the betting, along with Group A rivals Uruguay.

Even meeting that expectation would secure a first semi-final appearance in a FIFA organised tournament involving senior players – three in this instance – for the first time since Euro ’96.

Pearce was a significant part of that European Championship campaign.

And whilst it is doubtful Team GB could fuel the same national pride given the dilution of traditional national boundaries, Pearce does feel it will be a competition to remember.

“When we finish this tournament, we want to send 18 players back to their clubs with a lifetime of memories,” he said.

“To do that we have to be successful, get out of the group and see where we go from there.”