Before the World Cup started, Neymar was the focus of all of the interest in the Brazil squad. Now, though, attention has turned to Philippe Coutinho. Quite simply, Coutinho has outshone Neymar, providing moments of outstanding skill and important goals. It is the Barcelona man who has looked like the Selecao’s talisman – not the world’s most expensive player.
Coutinho was man of the match in Brazil’s opening two games – and rightly so. He announced his arrival in Russia with a wonder goal in the 1-1 draw with Switzerland, while his last-minute strike against Costa Rica kickstarted his country’s campaign.
The former Liverpool star did not net in the 2-0 win over Serbia that sealed top spot in Group E but he was once again one of Brazil’s key men, constantly probing and pressing. Neymar, by contrast, has been the most frustrating player to watch during the group stage, despite racking up a goal and an assist.