World Cup friendly: Neymar stars in Brazil's win over Panama
Brazil superstar Neymar helped put aside worries about how ready Brazil are for the World Cup by playing a huge role in Brazil's 4-0 win over Panama in the city of Goiania, Brazil this morning (June 4).
His one goal and three assists ensured that the Selecao (Brazil's nickname) were able to come out as comfortable winners, Reuters reported.
He opened the scoring for the hosts with a sweetly struck free kick from 20 meters that left the Panamanian keeper clutching nothing but air in the 27th min.
His Barcelona team mate Dani Alves doubled the score in the 40th min with a low shot from outside the box.
The home fans did not have to wait long after the restart as Neymar once again played a part in the third goal.
His back heel help set up the rampaging Hulk who made no mistake by slotting the ball home with the outside of his left foot.
Substitute Willian concluded the scoring when he fired home from inside the penalty area after more good work from Neymar.
Boos
Despite the win, fans of Brazil jeered their team early on as Panamanians made a lively start.
It was only when Neymar open his scoring account that the Panamanians, who narrowly missed out on this year's football extravaganza, crumbled and Brazil start to dominate the field.
After the game, Neymar called for a little patience from the home fans.
"The need the fans to be a bit more patient, they were booing us at the start,” he said. “Once we picked up the pace of the game, and we got used to the pitch, we got better and we imposed our rhythm on them and got goals.”
Hosting the World Cup for the first time since 1950, Brazil will open the month-long tournament against Croatia in Sao Paulo on June 12. They also play Mexico and Cameroon in Group A.
Source: Reuters
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