Casemiro reckons he is playing at the peak of his powers and is relishing leading Brazil's push for a sixth World Cup triumph.
The Manchester United midfielder scored a wonder goal to clinch a 1-0 win over Switzerland, which booked Brazil's place in the last 16. Casemiro won five Champions League titles at Real Madrid, but believes he is currently in the best form of his glittering career - because of his maturity.
"I think it’s down to my age," said Casemiro. "I’m 30-years-old. When you reach a certain age, you reach your prime mentality and physically. I think at 30 and 31 you’re at your prime. So, without doubt, I’m really happy.
"The youngsters are coming in and adding a lot of energy. They know the responsibility they have. Yet again, Rodrygo came on and did really well. Antony, Gabriel Jesus, Vinicius Jr. We have a good mix.
"We didn’t concede a goal and that’s important to point out. Richarlison has been putting in great performances and helping out. When people talk about not conceding, they always talk first about the goalkeeper, the back four, the first holding midfielder.
"But we know that defending starts with the attack. It’s good to let these youngsters loose, because they play really well and have a lot of desire."
"Unfortunately Neymar is absent, which is something we didn't want," said Rodrygo. But there have been other times when we have played without him, and the World Cup is no time to regret.
Brazil beat Switzerland without Neymar, who suffered an ankle injury in the 2-0 win over Serbia that has ruled him out until the knockout stage.
But Rodrygo, who provided the assist for Casmerio's stunning strike against the Swiss, said it was a good test for Brazil to show they can win without their star man.
"All we can do is cheer for him and for Danilo to come back as soon as possible. And while they don't come back, we're going to do our best to try to win every game."
Rodrygo, who is in the frame to start Brazil's final group game, against Cameroon on Friday, said he is relishing his first taste of the World Cup. "I'm mentally prepared, if I have the opportunity to start the next game," said Rodrygo. "I'm ready to play and do things well.
"So any moment the opportunity comes, I have to be prepared. In my life it has always been like this, things have happened quickly. I arrived at Real Madrid when I was 18, with no time to prepare. You have to arrive prepared, so I'm ready for whatever comes.
"My first World Cup has been sensational. I've been learning every day, with everything we do - training, going to the hotel, giving interviews."
