'We Are Ready', Says Brazil Goalkeeper Alisson Ahead of Crucial Clash with Morocco

Liverpool's Alisson, who has faced a series of recurring injuries recently, told a press conference at Brazil's hotel in New Jersey that he was 100% fit to play in his third World Cup.

In response to a question about Brazil's standing, given that other teams like France and current champions Argentina are considered better prepared, the 33-year-old said being among the favourites "is no guarantee for anybody" and places extra pressure on the team.

"What really matters is the condition you are in at the first game. We are ready," he said, adding that the atmosphere has been positive after the difficulties Brazil faced during the South American qualifiers.

They finished fifth, behind Argentina, Ecuador, Colombia and Uruguay, having appointed Italian Carlo Ancelotti as coach before the final two matches, when they won one and lost one.

"This last cycle was tough; we felt it deeply. But everything started to improve once Ancelotti arrived. He has a very strong presence in the group and gives us tranquillity to work," said Alisson.

Ancelotti has been with five-time champions Brazil for nearly a year. As the first foreign head coach in the role, his results have been mixed, but many trust his leadership as essential to bringing the World Cup back to the country after 24 years.

Brazil's first match will take place against Morocco on Saturday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Alisson said the 67-year-old Ancelotti had been focused on improving the team's defence, which has often been problematic.

"Some of those goals could have been avoided. We are working on it, because the World Cup is a short tournament. We know we will always have chances to score because of the quality of the team," he said.

When asked if he was excited to join the four Brazilian goalkeepers who have been to three or more World Cup tournaments, he said he wanted to join another group, the champions one.