Lucio declares war in all-Brazil clash

Rio de Janeiro - Former Brazil captain Lucio says the Copa Libertadores clash between Sao Paulo and Atletico Mineiro will be a battle of attrition as both teams cast an eye to the tournament’s knockout phase.

Atletico are already guaranteed a place in the Round of 16 while Brazilian rivals Sao Paulo need to win at Morumbi Stadium and hope that Arsenal de Sarandi defeat The Strongest, reports Xinhua.

“Every game has pressure but this one will have even more. It’s going to be like a war. We need to go into the match with a winning attitude and believe in ourselves until the very end because it’s going to be a tough battle,” Lucia said Tuesday ahead of Wednesday’s clash.

Lucio, 34, joined Sao Paulo this season after a distinguished career in Germany and Italy, most notably with Bayern Munich and Inter Milan. The defender is adamant his team can limit the impact of Atletico’s star-laden side, which includes Ronaldinho, former Manchester City forward Jo and Chelsea target Bernard.

“They have quality players but we will only be thinking about winning. It will be like a final for us. Beating them will give us great confidence and spirit.”