To win he’ll need to beat out Messi, Ronaldo, and Salah.
Last Sunday, Neymar played his first match associated with Brazil’s World Cup preparation. It was his first action on the field since suffering a fractured metatarsal in February.
Neymar in action against Croatia (photo, CBS Sports)
Sunday’s game was a tight contest until Neymar came in as a substitute in the 68th minute. He quickly gave Brazil the nod. His goal, followed by a late strike by Roberto Firmino, ensured that Croatia left the pitch with doubts going into the World Cup.
Neymar’s inclusion on Brazil’s World Cup squad brings a lot of expectations. And if he can bring the Cup home, he’s not only like to be named the player of the tournament, he’ll also become the leading contender to win the coveted Ballon d’Or (Golden Ball) trophy.
Other contenders this year are Lionel Messi, who helped Barcelona win the league and Copa del Rey, and is tops among all European players in terms of goals and assists; Cristiano Ronaldo, who helped Real Madrid to Club World Cup and Champions League successes, and also holds the record for most goals scored in a single Champions competition (15); and “The King of Egypt,” Mohammed Salah, who helped Egypt qualify for the World Cup, led Liverpool to the Champions League final, and is the first African player to be named the Premier League’s Player of the Year.
