With host Brazil set to face Spain in the FIFA Confederations Cup final, newly acquired FC Barcelona striker Neymar will have a chance to silence critics for his much-hyped move to the La Liga powerhouse.
This game will be both Neymar’s shot to show the nay-sayers that he is worth the 32 million euros Barca paid to get him, as well as his official coming-out party to the rest of the soccer world.
The FIFA Confederations Cup this year will be remembered more by Neymar’s overall performance rather than who won. Even though Neymar had three goals in his first three games, all of great quality, doubters in Europe still exist.
Tonight, Neymar will be playing against many of his new teammates at FC Barcelona and his soon to be opponents in La Liga. Playing against La Furia Roja will be both Neymar’s and the Brazilians greatest test.
His performance tonight will go a long way in convincing his teammates and future opponents he is the real deal or just another disappointing Brazilian player like Robinno.
Neymar must score or have star player moments tonight against Spain to show his critics and future teammates that he is worth his extremely high price tag. Spain or Brazil winning does not matter tonight because it will be forgotten in a year’s time. Neymar’s performance is the only thing that will be remembered.