Alisson hailed Richarlison as Brazil’s new hero after his wonder goal got their World Cup campaign off to a winning start.
Tottenham forward Richarlison produced a moment of individual brilliance in Brazil’s 2-0 win over Serbia, his second a breathtaking volleyed scissor kick - a goal of the tournament contender that will take some beating.
Neymar - who went off with an ankle injury - may be Brazil’s star player, but Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson underlined Richarlison’s value to the favourites and five-time winners. “He’s an amazing player, really important for us,” said Alisson.
“Both attacking-wise and defensively, he helps a lot and puts so much in on the pitch for the good of the team. I’m just really happy and so proud for him, scoring two – and one of them was such a fantastic goal. It was amazing.”
Asked if he would have been able to save Richarlison’s stunner, Alisson laughed and said: “I don’t think so, no.” Only three weeks before Brazil coach Tite named his World Cup squad, Richarlison suffered a calf strain and feared he would miss the tournament.
A similar injury had previously sidelined him for three months, but Richarlison’s rapid recovery was a major boost for him and Brazil, as he underlined with his match-winning double. “I’m so happy for him,” said Brazil and Manchester United winger Antony.
“He’s a great guy. He deserves it. That’s Richarlison. You give him a chance, he scores. You should see him in training. He shoots from anywhere and everywhere, all sorts of angles. He’s an incredible player.”
Fellow Brazil and United star Fred added: “Richarlison’s performance was outstanding. I want to congratulate him. It’s not easy on your World Cup debut, but he scored two goals. The most important thing is that we got the victory. It was a great performance.”
As much as their formidable talent and squad strength, Alisson hailed Brazil’s band of brothers spirit as one of their key assets as they chase a sixth World Cup. We have an amazing atmosphere and spirit between us all, it’s great,” said Alisson.
“But this is a fantastic group. Obviously there are some really talented players, and very experienced, but also we’re very good friends. We all grew up together and came along the journey with each other.
"For example, me and Casemiro have played together since we were 15 – it’s the same with Neymar, too. We dreamed of these moments as kids and here we are all playing together in a World Cup.
“Of course, we know we are here to work and play, but equally we’re also here to enjoy it as well. Happiness is the face of this team. Everyone started dancing together [on the team bus as it arrived at the stadium].”
