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KAZAN, Russia (Reuters) – Belgium defender Vincent Kompany's combative remarks in the lead-up to Friday's quarter-final blockbuster were a "provocation" intended to hide his "fear", Brazil center back Miranda has said.
Veteran Kompany described Brazil as "individually … the strongest team in this World Cup," during a media conference. But he said no Belgium players were "going to sleep at night thinking we have already lost to Brazil."
Kompany added that Belgium would look their "opponents in the eye" when they play at Kazan Arena in the pick of the quarter -finals in Russia.
Miranda, who will become the fourth player at the tournament (19659002) "We know all kinds of provocation, "I think it's a way of showing trust and hiding fear."
the Brazil national team, and a leader like his team mates. "
The match pits two of the most fancied teams at the World Cup, with Brazil's stingy defense to contend wit
Brazil have conceded just one goal in four matches, with Inter Milan's Miranda playing a big part in the defensive stonewall with center back partner Thiago Silva.
The pair have started in all four games Romain Lukaku and Eden Hazard
Miranda said five-times champions Brazil could ill afford to focus on shutting down individual players, however, as they bid to reach a semi-final against France or Uruguay.
"Belgium is not just Lukaku," he said.
"Certainly they have a very strong attack, players on the pitch.
"(They have) several high quality players, they are very skilful and taller, so they will be prepared to neutralize all of the opponents' attacks."
(Reporting by Ian Ransom; Editing by Hugh Lawson)
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