Brazil’s midfield heading to the World Cup in top shape

Brazil midfielder Paulinho believes his side is in much better shape heading into this year’s World Cup in Russia than they were as the host nation four years ago.

Now 29, Paulinho was part of Luiz Felipe Scolari’s side in 2014 as they were humiliated by Germany in the semi-finals, losing 7-1.

He came off the bench in that match and is one of only four players in Tite’s squad this year in Russia who appeared on that fateful night in Belo Horizonte.

Thiago Silva was in the squad but was suspended, while Neymar was injured. Brazil comes into this year’s tournament, and their opening game against Switzerland on Sunday, having lost just once in 21 outings over the past two years.