'Terrifying' Brazil near full-strength for Croatia quarterfinal test

Neymar scored his 76th goal against South Korea and paid tribute to the 82-year-old former Brazil great, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, holding a banner in the middle of the pitch with “Pele” written on it.

“It's hard to talk about what Pele is going through, but I wish him all the best, I hope he gets back to good health as soon as possible and that we can comfort him with this victory and the banner we raised for him,” an emotional Neymar told a news conference.

After overcoming Japan on penalties on Monday after a 1-1 draw after extra time, Croatia face the huge task of facing Brazil and their five-man attack which blew away South Korea with four first-half goals.

Led by the experienced Luka Modric, Dejan Lovren, Ivan Perisic and Marcelo Brozovic, the 2018 finalists arrived in Qatar as one of the oldest teams there are concerns about the fitness and form of key stalwarts after the gruelling 120- minute game against Japan.

“Brazil are the favourites, let's face it,” Dalic told reporters. “Brazil are the most powerful and the best national team at the World Cup.

“What I've seen so far, when you take a look at their players, their quality, skills and value, then it is indeed terrifying.

“We need to enter the match with much faith, self-confidence and looking for our chances, enjoy the occasion of playing Brazil, that's it.” 

Reuters

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