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Melo blames vuvuzelas for own goal[/FONT]
Monday 12 July, 2010
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Juventus midfielder Felipe Melo has blamed the vuvuzelas for the own goal he scored in Brazil's World Cup Quarter-Final against Holland.
Melo has been widely blamed for Brazil's premature exit from the competition and was even warned by Ronaldo not to holiday back home.
He had started the Quarter-Final in fine form, setting up Robinho for Brazil's opening goal with a stunning pass from midfield.
However, it all went down hill from then onwards as he got in Julio Cesar's way while defending a set-piece, which allowed Holland to equalise.
Melo then failed to pick up Wesley Sneijder who scored Holland's second goal and was sent off soon afterwards for stamping on Arjen Robben.
Brazil lost 2-1 and their World Cup dream was over.
Speaking to Rede Globo, Melo said: “I will not be a scapegoat in any way: it's seems that everything I have done has been negative.
“We are forgetting the good things like the assist I gave to Robinho and the good performances in the other games.
“I know that I share part of the blame for the defeat against Holland, but I know that I gave my best.”
When asked about the own goal, he said: “Julio Cesar called for the ball, but with the vuvuzelas it was difficult to hear.
“Now my only objective is that of returning to Juventus and doing a good job.” [/FONT]