World Cup 2014: 8 Players Who Can Win It For Their Country
1. Neymar (Brazil)
Current Odds: 3/1
Not since 1998 when his fellow countryman Ronaldo played a similar role has one individual player found his name in such a synergy with an overall World Cup tournament as Neymar has done over the last calender year. The poster boy. The one. The game-breaker. This is his tournament after all.
Let us all hope, then, that Dejan Lovren doesn't decide to spoil the party with a crunchy, disgusting tackle in the opening game! Imagine that. He'd need secret service protection leaving the country.
In all seriousness, Neymar, despite an injury-ridden, indifferent first season at a transitional Barcelona, is without question the chosen one by the Brazillian media and fans alike to lead their side to a stoic 6th World crown come July 13th. Perhaps the true threat of Brazil might, therefore, come in the form of the other talented players amongst their ranks not being given such treatment.
Whilst Neymar, alike Messi, looks poised to be heavily marked by all opposition, he might best be served taking up wider positions, attracting central markers and opening up spaces for midfield runners to move into. Whether through tricks or treats, Neymar's ability to define a game, as he did last year during the Confederations Cup has Brazil's hopes at an all time high.
Truthfully, Brazil will need to ascertain the right balance within their team; the likes of Ramires, Oscar and defensive superstars such as captain Thiago Silva and Dani Alves playing their part in enabling their attacking might, much as Argentina must do. Achieving the right balance between professionalism and flair remains the key untoward Brazil fulfilling the hopes of a nation and lifting the crown. Whilst, indeed, every player within the Brazil team will play their part if that is to eventually happen, there is no doubt it is Neymar who will feature, spot-lit, centre-stage with a nation behind him and the eyes of the world on him, when the curtain is raised on what promises to be a dynamic, pulsating tournament in 17 days time.