Brazil playmaker Oscar believes Mexico will provide a “very different” test for the hosts tonight following their winning start to the World Cup.
Luiz Felipe Scolari’s began their Group A campaign with a 3-1 win against Croatia on Thursday, in front of a partisan crowd at a buoyant Arena Corinthians in Sao Paulo.
That match saw the Selecao recover from an early Marcelo own goal, thanks to a Neymar brace that contained a controversial penalty and an inventive Oscar strike.
Mexico are their next opponents, with the Central Americans travelling to Estadio Castelao in Fortaleza on the back of Friday’s 1-0 victory against Cameroon.
Now Oscar, who drew many plaudits for opening display, has warned his team-mates to be prepared for a contrasting challenge.
“Mexico are a very good team. In the World Cup there is an extra desire to win and I hope we can do so again this time," said the Chelsea middfielder. “Mexico are a very different side to Croatia. They play the ball out from the back well and are very good on the counter-attack.”
Neymar was the star of the show against Croatia, lifting a nation to their feet when he drove forward to find the equaliser and then converted from 12-yards after striker Fred went down under minimal contact from centre-back Dejan Lovren.
Experienced El Tri captain Rafael Marquez knows that keeping Barcelona forward Neymar quiet is a challenge, but one Mexico must achieve if they are to upset the odds and move to the head of the group with one game remaining.
“We have to cover, have two against one, be fast and reduce the spaces on the pitch and not let him (Neymar) play,” he said. “It was a good win (against Cameroon ) and it was very important. Against Brazil, it will surely be a difficult game. We know the talent of Neymar, Oscar, Hulk but we will train in ways to handle them.
“We have to make the most of this opportunity – it is a showcase for all of us. It is an opportunity to go up a level.”
LIKELY LINE-UPS
Brazil (4-2-3-1)
Cesar; Alves, Luiz, Silva, Marcelo; Gustavo, Paulinho; Oscar, Neymar, Hulk; Fred.
Mexico (5-3-2)
Ochoa; Aguilar, Rodriguez, Marquez, Morano, Layun; Herrera, Vazquez, Guardado; Peralta. Dos Santos.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Brazil – Oscar
The Chelsea playmaker was in fine fettle for the World Cup opener, scoring an inventive third in the win against Croatia. His link-up play with Neymar should light up this game
Mexico – Oribe Peralta
The 30-year-old hit a predatory winner against Cameroon, remaining sharp to follow up strike partner Giovani dos Santos’ shot. Must continue scoring to keep Javier Hernandez out.
PREDICTION
Mexico should be brushed aside with ease by the hosts. Expect Neymar to strike in a comfortable 3-0 victory.
