Astonishingly, Brazil last won the World Cup back in 2002. Despite many talented players amongst their ranks, they struggle to play as a team in major tournaments. However, their technical abilities outperform their competitors by a mile.
In an interview with their last World Cup-winning captain, Cafu, he referred to Neymar as a gifted player. However, the former right-back wants him to be more of a leader for his country.
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Cafu wants Neymar to step up
The Brazilian legend spoke about the technical ability of Neymar, claiming he is better than his PSG compatriot, Lionel Messi. In fact, he believes Neymar is even better than the other GOAT of football, Cristiano Ronaldo.
“Neymar is technically better than Messi, better than Cristiano Ronaldo, but he must assume the responsibility of a leader,” said Cafu.
To be in the same bracket as Messi and Ronaldo is an honor itself, let alone be named better than them. However, gone are those days when the young lanky teenager wooed the fans with his samba-silky skills.
While his visually appealing audacious rainbow-flicks, elasticos, and surreal but sublime first-touches are still appreciated, the 29-year-old is now approaching the twilight years of his career. Hence, Cafu demands more ownership from him, as he believes Neymar still lacks the quality of a leader.
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Can he bring the World Cup back home?
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Often known as the land of soccer, it’s been a while since Brazil won a major international trophy. The last time they won a trophy was the Fifa Confederations Cup back in 2013, defeating Spain. Notably, Neymar, like Messi before, has not won a Copa America title or the World Cup. Thus, the pressure on him to succeed is immense.
“One must dedicate themselves 100 percent to football, I’m not better than Neymar, but I am better than other right-backs because I dedicated myself to that. He [Neymar] has to become a captain,” said Cafu.
Back in the day, Cafu was a monstrous leader on the pitch, who carried Brazil to the World Cup in 2002. Now it is the Brazilian’s time to shine. With a squad as talented as theirs, can this young Brazilian team get their hands on the World Cup in Qatar next year?
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