Brazil players get Tite's message - via app

QUITO • From matchmaking to online shopping, it seems there is little that a mobile phone app cannot do.

But few would have thought it possible to use one to coach an international football team. Until now.

New Brazil manager Tite has done just that to prepare his players for their World Cup qualifier against Ecuador (this morning, Singapore time).

The 55-year-old replaced Dunga in June after the team's group-stage elimination from the centenary edition of the Copa America.

However, he met most of the players for the first time this week, leaving him with little time to make them familiar with his football philosophy.

Instead of waiting until the first team meeting on Monday, he sent his squad detailed tactical videos in recent weeks via the messaging service WhatsApp.

"Those videos were essential," Real Madrid defensive midfielder Casemiro said.

"They are videos that he (Tite) sent us to explain how we will play, how it will work. It means that we were able to start preparing before we even arrived."

Right-back Dani Alves praised Tite's innovative approach to the team's preparations.

"He has already told us what he wants from us (as) a group," the Juventus player said.

"That has helped to bring us together and ensure that we are all going in the same direction."

XINHUA

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on September 02, 2016, with the headline Brazil players get Tite's message - via app. Subscribe