Neymar Jr returned from injury to help Brazil thump South Korea 4-1, setting up a World Cup quarter-final clash against Croatia.
Brazil celebrate, then Neymar brings out a huge banner in honour of Pelé, currently stricken in a São Paulo hospital. O Rei will have enjoyed the Seleção’s performance today. They were sensational in the first half, then eased their way through the second, energy conservation very much in mind. It was a slightly weird final score, though: South Korea’s utterly shambolic defence are very much flattered by the 4-1 scoreline, but their attack can feel a bit hard done by it. Hwang Hee-chan was a constant menace, Paik Seung-ho scored a screamer, and Alisson had to put in a proper performance, making three world-class stops. But Brazil were irrepressible when in full first-half flight, Richarlison’s goal in particular a mix of cheek, charm and beauty. They’re not perfect. But in this mood, they’ll take some stopping.
The tournament favourites Will face Croatia in the Quarter finals on friday
