"I failed to complete my job since it's my duty to bring the team to the final," said the Brazilian after the five-time World Cup champions were knocked out of this year's tournament with Saturday's 1-0 loss.

    "In Brazil, the coach is the one to be blamed if the national team suffered a defeat. I think I could not escape that."

    Parreira praised the French side as playing the game with a flawless performance, saying that "we were beaten by a very strong team who played an impeccable match."

    "We never prepared for this moment. This is a very difficult moment for all of us," he added.

    After Brazil were crashed out, a European final has been set as all four teams remained, France, Portugal, Germany and Italy are from the same continent.

    "The semifinals should feature at least one South American team. It's a shame for soccer," said Parreira. Enditem