Analysis: Neymar is not ready for a physical clash with Norway

Neymar and Vinicius Júnior were the most discussed names among Convoca CNN commentators on the eve of the decisive clash between Brazil and Norway in the round of 16 of the World Cup.

While Vini Jr. is seen as Brazil's greatest star on the field, Neymar's situation divided opinions about his possible use during the match.

Commentator Natália Fiuza, from Itatiaia, was categorical in ruling out this possibility for two reasons.

"Today is a game with a lot of physical confrontation, and I think Neymar is not prepared. He doesn't even have the characteristics, even if he was at his physical peak, he is not a combat player, a competitive player, to win the ball in midfield", he stated.

She also added that Lucas Paquetá's position requires a lot of work without the ball, something that doesn't match the number 10's current profile.

Neymar as an option for specific moments
Commentator Kauan Braga reinforced Natália Fiuza's assessment, highlighting that Neymar "apparently is at the end of the line" in the technical command's choices, alongside Luiz Henrique. For him, the physical issue is decisive:

"It's a very physical match. There's no way you can expect from Neymar what he's already delivered."

Commentator Raul Moura reinforced that Brazil's game against Japan served as evidence of Neymar's physical state.

"How is it that Brazil is losing the game and Neymar doesn't come in, not even out of desperation? This shows how he has no physical condition whatsoever", he assessed.

The CNN Convocation's conclusion was that Neymar would be used in extreme scenarios - such as extra time or penalty shootouts - and that, in the latter case, he should be the first to hit, unlike what happened against Croatia in their elimination from the 2022 World Cup.

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Source: CNN