The 22 year old Brazilian player’s name has been on everyone’s lips since the start of this World Cup, and Neymar hasn’t disappointed. With his second World Cup match against Mexico to commence in a few hours and win against Croatia behind him, the young star is on his way to become a roaring international success.
His victory against the surprisingly tough team Croatia proved his talent as a forward with his ambidextrous ability to shoot equally well with both legs and the capacity to score goals from often complex positions. His never-ending supply of energy carried him through the World Cup opener against the bigger Croatian players. Undeterred, Neymar was caught making numerous attempts at scoring a goal and succeeded twice throughout the duration of the match.
Generally a part of the trio in Brazil’s 4-2-3-1 formation, Neymar is crucial to the team for his assists as well as his quick goals. It is a blessing that he is a part of a great world time with players such as defenders Thiago Silva and Dani Alves and fellow attacking midfielders Hulk and Oscar, whose performances were tireless and brilliant in the opening game and in the qualifiers as well. This allows Neymar to focus purely on his attack, allowing him to score.
The one downside to this otherwise fantastic player could be his lean frame that results in him being the object of many fouls. Though some of his falls do seem a little exaggerated, it is impossible to not acknowledge the battering that his thin body often takes. Regardless, his quick feet and the ability to squeeze past tough defence in order to score a goal, more than helps his team succeed, and it is a thrilling performance this is expected of Neymar in tonight’s match.
Player Stats:
Club: FC Barcelona since 2013
Total Goals Scored
Club:151
Country:33
Honours and Accolades:Golden Ball for Best Player, FIFA Confederations Cup, 2013
Goal of the Year, FIFA Puskas, 2013
Top Scorer, Copa do Brasil, 2010