“I think it was the worst day of my life, but life goes on,” said the 65-year-old. “I will be remembered as the coach to lose 7-1 but I knew that risk when I took the job and life goes on so that is what I am going to do.” Brazil were swept aside by a stunning start from the Germans as goals from Thomas Mueller, Miroslav Klose, Sami Khedira and two from Toni Kroos put them 5-0 in front inside the opening half hour.
Andre Schuerrle added two more goals for the Germans after half-time before Oscar’s late consolation for the hosts.
“My message for the Brazilian people and fans is that we did what we could do and we did what we think was our best,” added Scolari. “We lost to a great team with great skill that took six minutes to change the game with four goals in an extraordinary manner. “Please excuse us for this mistake. We are sorry we could not get to the final and we will honour the team in the third-place playoff in Brasilia on Saturday.”
Scolari accepted responsibility for the defeat, but gave no indication as to whether he intended to stay on as Brazil coach after the tournament.
“Who is the one responsible? I am. This catastrophic result can be shared with the whole group because that is what my players say and want, but I am the one who chooses the tactics, the lineup, so the person responsible for the result is me.”