Exclusive | Former Manchester United midfielder Kleberson on ‘painful’ France-Brazil rivalry: ‘They always raise their level against us.’ | OneFootball

Get French Football News sat down with Brazilian World Cup winner Kleberson, as the former Manchester United star talks about the international rivalry between France and Brazil.

France have a 3-1 record against Brazil in World Cup matches, with all matches particularly memorable (Brazil’s 5-2 win in the 1958 semi-final, featuring a Pele hat-trick; France’s quarter-final win on penalties in 1986 – widely considered one of the best matches ever; the legendary 1998 final where France’s 3-0 victory saw them crowned World champions; and the 2006 quarter-final where Zinédine Zidane put on one of the best ever individual displays). “To be honest, Brazilians really hate playing against France because they always raise their level against us”, admits Kleberson. “When France face Brazil, they become a different team. Players like Zidane, Desailly, Barthez and Trezeguet were unbelievable in those moments. In 1998, the final was decided by details and in 2006, Zidane completely controlled the game. Even when we believe we have the better team, France always find a way to make it extremely difficult. There is huge respect there, but it is always a painful rivalry for Brazil.”

Kleberson names PSG’s Marquinhos ‘best defender in the world’

Kleberson thinks that that rivalry could be renewed in this year’s World Cup – potentially even in the final: “I would love to see a France versus Brazil final. That would be an incredible match for world football and a perfect stage for two nations with so much history and talent. France are very strong, very organised and full of quality, and Brazil now have a new coach in Carlo Ancelotti who is bringing back confidence and our traditional style. Of course, I hope Brazil win the World Cup. That is always my dream. A final against France with Brazil lifting the trophy would be something very special for our country and for the fans.”

Success in international football is often determined by who has the better defence. For Kleberson, this may be where Brazil have the crucial advantage – thanks to a player who plays his club football in France: “France have an excellent defence with very strong and athletic players, but for me Marquinhos is the best defender in the world today. He is calm, intelligent, strong in the air, very good on the ball and a true leader. When he plays, the whole defensive line feels more confident. If Brazil defend as a unit and stay organised, I believe their defence can be just as strong as France’s, especially in big tournament games.”

Kleberson was talking to GFFN courtesy of BetVictor Online Casino

GFFN | Jeremy Smith