MY ACCOUNT
Brazil are gunning for their first World Cup since 2002 — and Neymar’s return would take a brilliant Selecao side to the next level.
A nation held its breath when the Paris Saint-Germain star went off injured in their opening game against Serbia but the Selecao still managed to qualify with ease, winning their first two fixtures.
However, a much-changed side were beaten in their last outing by Cameroon — a timely reminder that they may require some of Neymar’s genius in the tournament’s latter stages.
Ahead of tonight’s clash with South Korea, we analyse how the No10’s return would elevate Brazil’s chances of glory.
Race against time
Brazil manager Tite will be desperate to bring his main threat back into the side — and the 61-year-old issued an update on the star forward’s fitness on Sunday.
He said: “Neymar will train today in the afternoon and if he trains well, he will play.
“If he plays, it’s because he is in full health and ready to start, to play from the beginning and the entire game with no limitations.
“My preference is always to play my best players from the start.”
Free role
Neymar played 80 minutes against Serbia before he was forced off with an ankle injury and his role in the side was clear to see.
The 30-year-old was given freedom to roam, dropping deep to receive the ball, creating overloads on the wings and scouring the field in search of space.
He struggled to make an impact in that opening contest, with the Serbians double-marking him and frequently disrupting his attacking rhythm with fouls.
However, Neymar’s tendency to attract multiple defenders frees up space for Brazil’s other attacking outlets — with Vinicius Junior and Richarlison both benefitting on that occasion
Club form
Neymar has been in sensational form at club level for PSG and will be hoping to carry that into this World Cup campaign when back fit.
In his 1,083 minutes in Ligue 1 this season, he has grabbed 11 goals — sitting only behind team-mate Kylian Mbappe (12) on the top scorers’ list — while also recording nine assists.
He has struck up a strong understanding with Lionel Messi and Mbappe in the French capital — two other players also looking for World Cup glory.
Quick transitions
South Korea have put on some very impressive displays so far.
However, they did enjoy less possession against Portugal, who were their first clear step up in opposition.
When South Korea have the ball, they attempt high-risk passes through the middle third and frequently look for cross-field switches.
If Brazil can intercept these balls in midfield and find Neymar in space, the 30-year-old certainly has the capacity to make them pay.
Supporting cast
Unfortunately for Brazil, the possibility remains that Neymar will not be fit enough to start against South Korea.
If this is the case, the Selecao’s other attacking talents must step up in order to give their star man the opportunity to help them to glory.
Raphinha and Vinicius would be tasked with stretching the pitch and beating their full-backs in one-on-one situations, while Richarlison would need to be clinical with the chances that fall his way.
The absence of Neymar’s creativity in central areas would be keenly felt by the Selecao — and West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta would have big boots to fill in attempting to perform that role for Brazil.
