Golden Boy’s injury makes World Cup victory all the harder…
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Not only is Neymar the poster boy of Brazilian football, but he’s by far and away their best player as well.
The 22-year-old has scored four goals so far during the World Cup – but an unfortunate and untimely injury will keep him out for the rest of the tournament – much to the detriment of the host nation’s chances.
Without Neymar, here’s how Luis Felipe Scolari might choose to line up against Germany in the semi-finals, and the potential World Cup final afterwards.
GK) Julio Cesar
It’s as you were in defence. Cesar’s done well so far, and will keep his place barring injury.
DR) Dani Alves
Alves will play at right-back, while his german counterpart Philipp Lahm who plays in the same position, is arguably the only better defender in this position around.
DC) Thiago Silva
Arguably the best defender in the world – Thiago Silva will continue to lead his side out for the remainder of the tournament.
DC) David Luiz
The centre-back scored one of the goals of the tournament to confirm Brazil’s progression against Colombia in the quarters.
Click through the pages to read the rest of Brazil’s likely lineup!
DL) Marcelo
Marcelo will potentially have to tame his attacking instincts verses the dangerous Germans.
MC) Luis Gustavo
The anchorman should return to the XI following suspension., at the expense of Paulinho.
MC) Fernandinho
Fernandinho has done well since earning a place in the starting XI – and he’ll likely retain his spot over the Spurs man as a result.
AMR) Hulk
Hulk will hope to cut in-field on his extremely powerful right boot and shoot at Manuel Neuer’s goal.
AMC) Oscar
Oscar’s importance is now maximised in Neymar’s absence. The Chelsea man will be used in the pivotal no.10 role, and Scolari will be relying on his creative spark.
AML) Willian
In place of Neymar, we think Brazil might deploy Willian on the left. He doesn’t offer anywhere like the same goal threat – but he can create chances with his impressive array of passing.
FC) Fred
The striker has not enjoyed the best of tournaments so far – but his country desperately need him to start finding the back of the net now.
