World Cup 2022: Antony Reveals Why Brazil Squad Suffered From Bouts of Illness

• Brazil forward Antony has said the air condition in World Cup stadiums has caused a wave of sickness among the Brazil squad
• Nozzles that release cold air have been placed at the edges of the stadiums to provide protection for fans and players from the heat
• Several Spanish players also fell ill and exhibited flu-like symptoms, and bacteria brought on by poor ventilation is reported to have caused it

The Brazilian winger has blamed air conditioning in stadiums in Qatar for the illness suffered by the Brazil squad.

Sickness has spread around the Selecao base in the last few days and the likes of Neymar, who is recovering from injury, was among those who fell ill.

Big units positioned around the edges of the stadium pump cold air inside the stadium in a bid to cool the playing area since the country is a desert. Nozzles have also been placed under the seats to provide a cooling environment for fans.

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The Mirror reports that Antony is the first player to have been hit with flu-like symptoms, but reports have revealed some players from the Spanish squad also fell ill.

Antony blames air conditioning

According to ESPN Brasil via Goal, Antony said the organisers should've done better to prevent players from getting sick.

"It was a bit difficult. I ended up having a bad feeling there for a few days that complicated me a bit. I’m recovering well and getting 100 per cent. It was more of a sickness, throat. It was the air conditioning."

Despite the sickness, the 22-year-old has made substitute appearances and helped Brazil register comfortable wins over Serbia and Switzerland.

"Not only me, but other players also had a cough and a bad throat. It’s very difficult for me to get sick, but I’m happy to be an important part of the team. Whenever you need Antony, I’m available."

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The sickness could've been brought by poor ventilation and the presence of pollutants like bacteria.

Brazil beat Switzerland

Sports Brief earlier reported on Brazil securing their place in the last 16 after Casemiro's stunning effort against Switzerland.

The Brazilians were frustrated by a stubborn Swiss side at Doha's Stadium 974. It looked as if they would have to settle for a point after a Vinicius Junior strike in the second half was ruled out for offside following a VAR check.

With seven minutes to go, Bruno Guimaraes flicked the ball to Casemiro just inside the box, and the Manchester United combative midfielder's volley flew into the net with the help of a slight deflection off Man City defender Manuel Akanji.

Tite's side are just the second team to qualify for the last 16 after France and the only side apart from the holders to have won both group matches so far in Qatar.