CASEMIRO moved his proud wife and daughter to tears after turning the tide for Brazil.
The Manchester United star faced demands for his substitution at half-time while Carlo Ancelotti’s squad was down 1-0 against Japan, courtesy of Kaishu Sano’s opening score.
However, the seasoned former Chelsea and Real Madrid coach chose to keep his trust in Casemiro, who promptly proved him right.
The 34-year-old equalized for Brazil merely ten minutes into the second half, putting forth an exceptional display thereafter.
Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli netted a late winner SIX minutes into stoppage time, propelling Brazil into the last 16 while leaving Japan devastated.
Contrarily, Casemiro exited with the title of Man of The Match.
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His wife, Anna Mariana, and their ten-year-old daughter were brought to tears of joy from the stands after his equalizing goal.
The first half was challenging to watch, with Lee Dixon and Roy Keane among those calling for Casemiro’s substitution.
However, at full-time, Keane remarked: “We have been critical of Casemiro defensively, but we acknowledge he poses a goal threat, consistently finding himself in the box.”
“The delivery and importantly, Casemiro… He reads the play well, and his timing, my goodness, it’s impeccable.”
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The knockout stages of the World Cup have begun, with numerous top teams still contending for global supremacy.
England manager Thomas Tuchel is keen on bringing football home after a 60-year wait for the nation.
Nonetheless, formidable nations like France, Spain, Brazil, and Germany remain strong contenders for the much-coveted trophy.
Football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo show no signs of slowing down in what appears to be their final World Cup showings.
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“Once again, we shouldn’t be surprised as he has scored plenty of superb goals for United; he indeed poses an aerial threat.
“His instinct in the box is akin to that of a top forward.”
This follows Keane’s initial comment: “They are giving the ball away needlessly, but there is still a long way to go.”
“This is the aspect that frustrates me; you see Casemiro, his first instinct is to move out.
“He must retreat, safeguard the goal, and slow the opposing player down.
“He has experience, but it’s in vain if it’s not utilized.
“Kudos to the attacking midfielder; he performed well, but Casemiro nearly guided him past.
“He needed to keep his position at the back. Just keep retreating, slow him down, and surround him.”
“A well-deserved goal; however, from Brazil’s midfield perspective, it was far from enough.
“I’d be surprised if he emerged for the second half.”
Ancelotti stated post-game: “At half-time, I told the players to remain patient because scoring was only a matter of time.
“What was essential was maintaining our structure. We know we are on the right track and must continue.”
Brazil is poised to face the winner of tomorrow’s match between Norway and the Ivory Coast.
