Neymar scores solo goal on return, Brazil defeats Croatia

Goals: Neymar 69', Firmino 90'+3

Neymar came on in the second half and made his mark by dribbling past three players before finishing high into the Croatian net. This solo goal marked the return of the superstar wearing the number 10 shirt after being sidelined since February.

In the final minute of injury time, Brazil sealed the score 2-0 thanks to Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool striker's volley caused excitement in the stands because the friendly match was held right at Anfield.

Another Liverpool player, Dejan Lovren, had a chance to open the scoring for Croatia in the first half, but he headed the ball wide of the post. The Eastern European team also caused trouble for the Brazilian goal with Andrej Kramaric's long-range shot.

Brazil have won all three of their recent friendlies against Russia, Germany and Croatia. Coach Tite's team has shown that they are a strong candidate for the 2018 World Cup after winning the first ticket to the world's biggest festival. Besides the high form of the whole team, the return of Neymar promises to give more confidence to the samba dancers.

Neymar has been sidelined for more than three months with an ankle injury sustained in a Ligue 1 match against Marseille. The injury has put Neymar's World Cup chances in doubt, but his goal against Croatia showed the star is back to his best.

Four years ago, Neymar's injury prevented him from playing in the semi-final and Brazil's 1-7 defeat by Germany increased expectations for the superstar in Russia.

Neymar happy with the goal on his return. Photo:Rex

Before Neymar appeared, Brazil was overwhelmed by Croatia in the first half. The fierceness of the Croatian midfield combined with the ability of striker Kramaric made it difficult for the Brazilian defense. In addition, coach Tite arranged three defensive midfielders, Casemiro, Fernandinho and Paulinho, which reduced Brazil's attacking ability, leading to a somewhat passive and slow playing style.

The decision to bring in Neymar and then Firmino paid off. Brazil’s play became smoother and more dangerous chances came, including Marcelo’s high-flying runs with Neymar as his usual partner on the left wing.

Croatia lost the game by two goals but they have shown that they are a tough opponent for Argentina, Nigeria and Iceland in the upcoming World Cup. A midfield full of world-class players in Modric, Rakitic and Perisic is capable of controlling the play and tempo of any match against any team.

However, Croatia need to know how to take advantage of opportunities, as they created many problems towards Brazil's goal, but could not score a single goal.

Brazil will play their final friendly against Austria on June 10 before opening their World Cup group stage against Switzerland on June 17. Croatia will play Senegal in their final warm-up match on June 8 and then Nigeria on June 16.