Beijing, China, August 11, 2008 - Brazil Head Coach Bernardo Rezende has said that his team’s inability to retain the recent FIVB World League is a possible blessing in disguise as they look to claim their second successive Olympic title.

The world No. 1 Brazilians finished fourth in the 2008 Final Round in Rio de Janeiro in late July after a run of five straight World League triumphs, but bounced back in their first Olympic match on Sunday with a straight-sets win over Egypt.

The South Americans face Serbia next in Pool B on Tuesday and Rezende said the pressure is off his team as they look to find a way to beat the European powerhouse.

"The world doesn't see us as the favourite anymore, but just as a good contender. It works in a way because it takes pressure away, but the other teams are now more confident in playing against Brazil,” said Rezende.

"We've been dealing with the pressure for a long time. There was a lot of pressure we had to deal with before the Olympics, a lot of demands; it was not the right moment to play in Brazil (in the World League).

Serbia, who lost to Russia 3-1 in their opening match, finished second in the World League after falling to the USA in the Final match.

"We made many changes since the World League, and Serbia also changed a lot. They played the final (of the World League) very well. Our defence has returned to a good level. This is the most important thing for us, because Serbia attacks very well."

Brazil captain Giba said the will to win amongst his team-mates was so high that arguments among the players was part and parcel of preparations. 

"We need to play the way we know how to play. The Brazilian press made a big deal about an argument we had during practice, but that's the way we push each other to reach our goals," said Giba. 

"We are expecting another tough match (against Serbia), maybe 3-2. We must play with patience and take advantage of their mistakes. We have to play as a group."