Rio de Janeiro, Nov. 13 -- Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior said that Brazil has grown stronger since Carlo Ancelotti took over as national team manager earlier this year.

Since his appointment in May, the Italian has guided Brazil to three wins, one draw, and two defeats - including a narrow 3-2 loss to Japan in their most recent outing at Tokyo's Ajinomoto Stadium in October.

"I believe that with the manager we are evolving and we have adopted a clear game plan," Vinicius told the Brazilian Football Confederation's official website.

"He is very experienced and has given us confidence ... making the most of each player's characteristics."Brazil booked their place at next year's World Cup by finishing fifth in the 10-team South Americ...