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We have to learn to suffer, says Brazil’s Neymar
SAMARA, Russia, July 2, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Neymar said Brazil need to “learn to suffer” after their 2-0 win over Mexico on Monday booked a World Cup quarter-final place.
The five-time champions overcame a tricky start to the last-16 tie, as second-half goals from Neymar and Roberto Firmino sealed a deserved victory and a last-eight clash with either Belgium or Japan.
“We have to learn to suffer,” said Neymar. “It was a very difficult match, we knew the quality of our opponents.”
The Paris Saint-Germain forward stabbed home a low cross from Willian in the 51st minute to score his sixth World Cup goal and second of this year’s tournament, but first in a knockout match.
“Neymar was out for three-and-a-half months. At the top level, this is a lot,” said Brazil coach Tite.
“A top-notch athlete would need four or five matches to recover properly. In the previous match he was excellent and here he repeated a high-quality performance.”
Chelsea winger Willian was a constant threat to the Mexican defence with his driving runs, as he continues to improve after a disappointing display in the opening 1-1 draw with Switzerland.
“I’m very happy with my performance but even more so with the team’s victory,” he said.
Brazil are bidding for a record-extending sixth World Cup trophy after their semi-final humiliation four years ago against Germany on home soil, but would face a tough test against a talented Belgium outfit should the Red Devils get past Japan.
BSS/AFP/MMA/2323HRS