World Cup 2018: Brazil vs Mexico, 5 Key Players to watch out for

#1 Neymar Jr. (Brazil)

Neymar playing for Brazil

Neymar had an impressive U-17 World Cup campaign in 2009 which led to legends such as Pele and Romario urging then head coach Dunga to include Neymar in the 2010 FIFA World Cup squad. However, Dunga didn't select him in the final squad of 23 and Neymar made his international debut in July 2010 against the United States under new head coach Mano Menezes.

Neymar was signed by Catalan club FC Barcelona in 2013 from Santos and won eight titles with them in a span of 4 seasons. He joined French club Paris Saint-Germain in August 2017 for a world record transfer fee of €222 million. He made 30 appearances for the Parisian club and scored 28 goals, his season was cut short when he was injured in a game against Olympique de Marseille on 25th February 2018. His World Cup campaign also looked uncertain but he recovered in time to play for his national side in Russia.

Neymar can play as a central striker, second striker, winger or occasionally as an attacking midfielder. He often plays as a left-sided forward for both club and country in a traditional 4-3-3 formation. His main attributes are his creativity, vision, passing, finishing, dribbling and technique which make him a complete playmaker.

His World Cup campaign at Russia hasn't been truly impressive as in Brazil's group games he has only scored one goal and provided one assist. He is expected to step up for his side in the all-important Round of 16 fixture against Mexico and take his nation one step closer to the World Cup glory.