By DAN KARELL
With Brazil down a goal and looking flat to start the World Cup, Neymar showed exactly why he’s being counted on to lead his nation to glory.
The 22-year-old forward marked his 50th cap in the Brazilian jersey with a two-goal performance as Brazil came back from one-goal deficit to defeat Croatia, 3-1, at the Arena Corinthians in Sao Paulo. Neymar’s performance earned him SBI Man of the Match honors.
Neymar scored his first goal in the 29th minute off what looked to be a scuffed shot with his left foot that found the far post and went across the line. He added a second in the 71st minute, scoring a penalty kick goal that was nearly saved by Croatian goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa.
Neymar only barely beat out teammates Oscar and David Luiz for the honors.
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What did you think of Neymar’s performance? Who stood out the most to you in the opening match of the 2014 World Cup?
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