Neymar needed only 23 minutes to reassure Brazilians that his recovery is right on track for the World Cup.
Three months after undergoing surgery on his right foot, Neymar returned to action for Brazil and inspired a 2-0 win over Croatia in an international friendly that showed fans, teammates and coach Tite that he's in good shape for Russia.
"Any team would be relieved having such a player back," defender Thiago Silva said after Sunday's win at Anfield.
"We are a great team, but Ney has that light. When the game gets tough, he steps up to the challenge."
"Without Neymar we can't win it," Adriano said. "After watching him score I am confident again that Brazil can win in Russia. I didn't come here expecting him to do well, to be honest."
"But we planned how Neymar was going to be used, he is different."
He said Neymar shouldn't have the responsibility to produce the match-winning play every game, "otherwise it gets inhuman. He is part of a strong team."
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