Gabriel Martinelli impresses as Brazil lose 2-1 to Norway at World Cup | OneFootball

Brazil exited the World Cup on Sunday with a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the round of 16, but Gabriel Martinelli stood out.

According to Sofascore, the number 22 was Brazil's joint-best performer with Vinícius Júnior, rated 7.3. He started for the first time at this tournament, replacing Lucas Paquetá, who was sidelined with a muscle injury.

Martinelli stayed on until 22 minutes into the second half, then made way for Neymar, who converted a late penalty for Brazil's only goal. While on the pitch, he recorded one big chance created, two key passes, one big chance missed, 77% pass accuracy, one interception and one foul won.

For much of the campaign he began from the bench, yet he was decisive against Japan in the previous round. With the game level until the 50th minute, he scored with a placed finish after a pass into the area, the ball touching goalkeeper Suzuki and the post before crossing the line.

That strike was his fifth in 26 appearances for the national team. Corinthians later shared a light-hearted nod to his roots at Parque São Jorge, noting his time in the club's futsal set-up. Although he never played professionally for the club, Martinelli is a declared Corinthians fan and has said he dreams of representing them in future.

Source: Meu Timao