Brazil’s comfortable win over Serbia in their opening World Cup match had the shine taken off it slightly by an injury to Neymar.
The Selecao began their World Cup campaign with a 2-0 win in Qatar courtesy of two goals from Tottenham striker Richarlison. Tite’s side dominated proceedings and broke through twice in the second half to clinch a deserved win.
But while their performance was almost flawless, there were worrying signs as Neymar had to be substituted in the 80th minute for Manchester United star Antony. The Paris Saint-Germain forward was fouled nine times throughout the match as he received some rough treatment.
And he left the pitch with what appeared to be an injury to his right ankle. The PSG forward has previously struggled with ankle problems and his injury will come as a major concern to Tite, who has come to rely on him for attacking spark.
Neymar hobbled off the pitch, taking his right boot, sock and shin pad off as he went. He then sat on the bench with a grimace on his face and put his head in his hands.
The 30-year-old missed 12 games for PSG last season due to an ankle injury and Brazil will now be sweating over his fitness. Brazil face Switzerland next up on Monday in Group G before their final group stage match against Cameroon next Friday.
Discussing the injury on the BBC's coverage of the match, former England defender Micah Richards feared for Neymar's participation later in the tournament.
"We talked about how this could be his competition, you know, him in the form of his life this season, but when he does go down (like tonight) it is a worry," he said. "Hopefully it’s not anything too serious, but you don’t want your main man injured, especially in the first game."
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Neymar has previously suggested that the Qatar World Cup could be his last regardless of how it goes. He told DAZN: "I see it as my last [World Cup] because I don't know if I have the strength of mind to deal with football anymore."
Brazil have an embarrassment of riches in attacking positions, with Richarlison, Vinicius Jr, Raphinha and Lucas Paqueta starting alongside Neymar on Thursday night. Antony, Rodrygo, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus all came off the bench too in the second half.
Thursday's win sent Brazil top of Group G, above Switzerland on goal difference following their 1-0 win over Cameroon earlier in the day.
