Casemiro voted best player in Brazil v Japan | OneFootball

Scorer of one of the goals in the 2-1 win, Casemiro was named the best player of Brazil vs. Japan in the Round of 32 of the World CupCredits: Sean M. Haffey - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

Midfielder Casemiro was named by FIFA as the best player in Brazil’s 2-1 win over Japan in the Round of 32 of the World Cup on Monday (29) in Houston. The goal scored by the No. 5 at the start of the second half, after an assist from Gabriel Magalhães, sparked the comeback and secured qualification for the round of 16 of the tournament.

In an interview after the match, he commented on the “composure” and “calm” Brazil showed to find space in the opposing defense and turn the score around, despite the “whirlwind of emotions on the pitch" that a game of this importance brings.

“They played with a very deep block and managed to score. We had to find space against their back five. The team deserves praise for its calm and composure, because we knew our moment would come. We knew we would have chances and that they would lower their intensity. We had to stay calm because of their counterattacks, move the ball around to make their line shift. But it’s a whirlwind of emotions on the pitch,” he explained.

Casemiro celebrates Brazil’s goal against Japan in the Round of 32 of the World Cup in HoustonCredits: Rafael Ribeiro/CBF

In a difficult match against a national team that has been on the rise in recent years, Casemiro highlighted the performance of the players who came off the bench to help the team on the field.

“Football is getting harder and harder. There are no easy opponents anymore. I like to value the squad. Today Endrick came on, Martinelli, Rayan has been doing well, Fabinho... The level remains high, which is important for winning titles,” he said.

Ancelotti’s backing

At the press conference, coach Carlo Ancelotti pointed out the leadership Casemiro brings to the team and praised the midfielder’s “connection” with scoring. Last season, for Manchester United in England, he scored nine goals in 34 matches.

“Casemiro is a leader, no one else on the pitch can play in his position, he is really important. He has scored other goals like that in the Premier League. He has a great connection with goal,” he praised.

Casemiro in action during Brazil’s 2-1 win over Japan in the Round of 32 of the World Cup in HoustonCredits: Nelson Terme/CBF

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.