Doha, Nov 13(ANI): Brazil striker Kaka has said youngsters in the team would measure up to some big challenges in next year’s World Cup in South Africa.

The Brazilian team is currently undergoing practice at the Al-Gharafa Sports Club in Doha ahead of their friendly game against England.

“We have a new cycle and it took us time to gel. The guys want to leave a much better impression than in Germany in 2006, when we lost in the quarter-finals to France. There are a lot of new guys in the side and the motivation is much different from four years ago,” The Mirror quoted Kaka, as saying.

“People have to understand generations come and go. A whole era ended in 2006. But, I don’t really think the lads were unaware of what was at stake in Germany. But, I agree that a lot of players in the current squad have more reason to be hungry for World Cup success,” he added.

Kaka also said that England is one of the biggest competitors for Brazil and definitely one of the teams to consider for the trophy in South Africa

“What seems to have changed with England is the arrival of a better collective awareness. The players look much more aware with regards to movements and positioning. The attitude is also stronger. As much as the Doha game will award no points, it can work as a massive confidence boost when you beat an opponent also tipped to prevail next year,” Kaka said.

“England have always had individually strong players and I am a huge fan of Stevie Gerrard, who has the heart of a lion and is the icon of the modern footballer with his ability to attack and defend so well. But the World Cup is a competition in which everything needs to work for your advantage. Players need to be fit, decisions have to go in your favour and details such as a red card can cost a team dearly. I have no doubts that England can do it,” he added.

The 27-year-old would have the burden of scoring goals on his shoulders and after having excelled in Brazil’s World Cup qualifying campaign when they won the South American group without alarms. (ANI)