Dunga, who has given Brazil a meaner streak since taking over as coach, said he simply had the courage to make the tough decisions that were necessary.

Players like Ronaldo and Adriano, criticised for being lethargic and off the pace, have been sidelined by the former captain who has imposed a strict code of discipline.

Ronaldo has not played at all under Dunga while Adriano has made only one appearance.

"I think my biggest virtue during this time was I did what had to be done, and which all Brazilians said had to be done," Dunga told reporters as he continued preparations for tomorrow night's 2010 World Cup qualifier in Peru (kick-off: 11 p.m.).

"A lot of people didn't have the courage to take these decisions and I'm here to take them, to think about the team."

Dunga took over after Brazil's lacklustre performance at last year's World Cup in Germany where they lost 1-0 to France in the quarter-finals.

Brazil have lost twice in 21 matches under Dunga and won the Copa America in July despite the absence of Ronaldinho and Kaka.

They have also taken four points from their opening two matches in World Cup qualifying.

Playing Tonight

Argentina vs Bolivia
Colombia vs Venezuela
Paraguay vs Ecuador

Tomorrow
Uruguay vs Chile
Peru vs Brazil

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