The Selecao are still World Cup favourites, particularly after the PSG star's return, according to the former Uruguay international
Former Uruguay international Diego Lugano believes Brazil have never been so strong and remain World Cup favourites, particularly after Neymar's return.
Tite's men are yet to hit top form in Russia, but a 2-0 win over Costa Rica on Friday lifted them into first place in Group E.
Neymar, who was sidelined for three months before the tournament due to a foot injury, got on the scoresheet in that victory , and could be seen with tears in his eyes after the fact.
Lugano – a 95-time Uruguay international – feels Brazil deserve to be favourites to win the tournament as they, along with Spain, are the top teams in the world.
"I still think that Brazil, together with Spain, are the strongest team in the World Cup, and the most solid," he said.
"I've never seen a Brazil squad so strong coming into a World Cup, with so many players.
"They're tactically organised like never before, physically strong and very solid mentally. Tite has done a great job with them.
"I still think Brazil are the favourites to win this World Cup, even more with Neymar back to full fitness and playing again."
Not yet guaranteed a spot in the last 16, Brazil face Serbia in their final group game on Wednesday, with a draw enough to see them through to the last 16.
sunnysayus
69
Brazil of this tournament is without scepticism a winning team.They are strong at all angles and they have never derailed from the SAMBA pattern. They have a traditional coach in tite and their success in this word cup seems non negotiable.
wameilmopt
59
Great supporter of Brazil from this part of World. Papua New Guinea. Brazil need to play as a team even if we have brilliant individuals to win. Team work his what we need. please avoid France 98. Have fun the Brazilian style. Improving and will still improve. The younger players listen to the players. This is the World Cup not a club game.
famikmpru
39
The way the tournament is going on , and seeing countries giving everyone a tough fight . I don't think it's right to say brazil or neymar will take this cup , neymar has yet to show his talent he can't keep falling and crying like a girl .
chuo
36
I believe Brazil can claim the world cup but I don't think it would be Neymars glory. the glory might just fall to coutinho or someone else if Neymar does not get better as an individual and collectively. Coutinho is a quiet star more like rivaldo in 2002.