Lucas Leiva admits a stuttering Brazil must step up if they have any chance of winning the Copa America following a 2-2 with Paraguay on Saturday.

A late goal from Fred was required to prevent an unexpected defeat in Argentina.

This comes on the back of an opening game draw with Venezuela - meaning Brazil cannot relax heading into their final group clash with Ecuador on Thursday.

And Lucas, who played all 90 minutes against Paraguay, said: "We shall have to improve otherwise things are going to be very difficult. We recognise that.

"We did all we could to win and then we made two mistakes which led to Paraguay's goals."