Neymar’s return helmed Brazils’ spot against Croatia in the QFs that defeated Japan with a dramatic 3-1 penalty shoot-out win after a tense last-16 clash ended 1-1. Five-time world champions Brazil turned in a five-star performance as they dismantled South Korea 4-1 in the round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup on Monday.
Neymar was put to rest in the laat two matches owing to his ankle sprain. His absence was much felt as the team dragged itself to victory. He came back for this last-16 tie as Tite’s team clicked into gear and delivered an ominous message to their rivals, at least before easing off in the second half. Vinicius Junior opened the scoring against South Korea on Monday. Neymar made it 2-0 from the penalty spot just six minutes later. The team poised to win with the game effectively already in hand staged 77 minutes of must-watch television entertainment.
Following the match, Brazilian players dedicated their win to Pele who is missing in action as he is sought medical help in Sao Paulo, after sauntering to a 4-1 World Cup victory over South Korea.
Meanwhile, the 55th minute in the match turned tables as Mario Pasalic struck the winning penalty to send Croatia through after Ivan Perisic had pulled Croatia level following Daizen Maeda’s opener for Japan just before the break.
Japan’s bid to reach the last eight for the first time in their history came to a crushing end after another display of the sort which saw off Spain and Germany on their way to topping Group E.
The Group G winner Brazil will take over Croatia in the Quarter Finals on Friday at the Education City stadium.
Reports hint the FIFA WC 2022 trophy revealation is to take place on December 18th. Global superstar, Deepika Padukone is expected to fly to Qatar soon to participate in the event. The 36-year-old will be the first actor to receive such an honour at the world’s most-watched sporting event.