Brazilian coach Luiz Felipe Scolari told his detractors to expect more from his side after they fought back from a goal down to beat England 2-1
The Brazilian coach has fended off months of criticism for an approach to the game which many in Brazil consider dull.
"I feel happiness. It's a job well done and enables us to give
something to the Brazilian people. I have a personal feeling of great satisfaction," he said.
Scolari, nicknamed "Big Phil," said he had given his side a
simple message beforehand.
"My only thought was to be alive, not to die. That's what I said to the players before the match."
Scolari added that he believed Ronaldinho's sending off just before the hour mark for a foul on Danny Mills was unjustified.
"Ronaldinho was fouled by an England player just before it. He didn't intend to foul anyone. Afterwards I changed the system a little and the lads did a great job."
But Scolari said his side were well-prepared to cope with the loss of Ronaldinho.
"We practise with 10 men sometimes," Scolari said.
"People have asked me why I do this but now you see why.
"Never have I seen a group of players defending the national colours with such a fighting spirit."
Brazilian captain Cafu said he was confident his team
would go on and become world champions after their 2-1 win over England.
The Brazilians fell behind to Michael Owen's goal, but Rivaldo's equaliser on the stroke of half-time, and Ronaldinho's free-kick gave Brazil victory.
"We will get there," he said.
"We're already among the four best, and God willing,
we'll be the best."