GOAL

Former Brazil defender Cafu believes that his nation are no longer able to strike fear into the hearts of opponents after they bowed out of the Copa America quarter-finals.

The Selecao's record caps holder feels that opponents have lost respect for his country following their humiliating exit from last year's World cup

The Selecao slumped out of the South American championships on penalties to Paraguay, only a year after they were demolished 7-1 by eventual World Cup winners Germany on home soil.

Cafu, who won two World Cups and a pair of Copa America titles during a glittering 16-year international career, believes that those chastening defeats have not only negatively affected the players' confidence - but also their standing within the global game .

"[Brazil] are lacking commitment and desire. They lost respect. Due the football we're playing the rivals no longer fear us,” the 45-year-old said at a press conference.

"We went through a transition period but Brazil will be a team that imposes fear again. Those who despise us may be surprised."