Carnival dances, world class goals, party tricks galore and thousands of yolks having fun – this was Brazil at its best.
We’re used to seeing them in the round of 16 at World Cups, but this was a treat – one of the most impressive performances at this tournament that had the spectators at Stadium 974 in Qatar dancing.
It was street football from Rio de Janeiro brought straight to the Middle East – a legendary number 10 playing tricks, a juggling Richarlison scoring worlds – again – and a constant carnival sound coming from the thousands of fans dressed in yellow.
“Devastating. Brazil are telling the other teams in the tournament ‘we’re here’,” former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“Absolutely destroying Seoul”
The Selecao is definitely here.
Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior and returning superstar Neymar both had their moments in the spotlight, while Richarlison continued his quest to score the tournament goal(s).
There were captions all around before kick-off as Ronaldinho’s name was plastered on the back of the shirts and tributes to the great Pele, currently being treated in hospital, were displayed in the stands.
And the return of Brazil’s current star had fans singing ‘Neymar, Neymar, Neymar’ as he approached the penalty spot, ready to double his lead.
A rash of noise, a dance display by manager Tite and a hug for injured defender Alex Telles by Neymar followed. Brazil were leading 2-0 and there was more to come.
At half-time, with Tite’s side leading 4-0, social media crashed as the Brazilians partied on the sands of Copacabana beach and players shook their hips as they danced through the tunnel .
The only people who apparently didn’t like him were the South Koreans.
“Let’s be honest this is absolutely destructive for Seoul,” BBC Sport reader Olly tweeted.
Ouch.
And the winner is…
Richarlison’s dazzling feet were also on display.
The Tottenham striker was already in a league of his own when it came to the goal of the tournament after scored a great volley in the win over Serbia.
But there is no celebration without a World Cup of Richarlison at this World Cup.
So he juggled the ball three times over his head, threw it at a teammate, ran a one-two into the box and quietly slotted home.
Haven’t we seen this forward showboating in Nottingham?
But that was the tournament objective officially in the bag.
But wait… South Korean Paik Seung-ho wasn’t going to let Brazil have the fun when he crashed into a howler from 30 yards out.
A consolation for South Korea – but at least they had their moment on a night that will be remembered for football magic in Doha.
South Korea also wanted more moments, but Brazil goalkeeper Alisson made several brilliant saves and was then substituted in the 80th minute to a standing ovation.
“It’s Like Watching Strictly”
At the full-time whistle, the Brazilian players headed straight for their supporters behind the goal.
More dancing, more tambourines and Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes was even mounted on the shoulders of a team-mate.
But Brazil could not please everyone. Speaking on ITV, former Republic of Ireland midfielder Roy Keane said: “I’ve never seen so much dancing. I can’t believe what I’m watching, it’s like watching Strictly [Come Dancing].
“I don’t like it. People say it’s their culture. But I think it’s really disrespectful to the opposition. I don’t mind the first time and that jitter, but then the manager got involved. I’m not happy about that.”
No beach party for Keane so…
“Beautifully terrifying Brazil” – how you reacted on social media
callum: It’s very nice ! I thought Brazil should have started Martinelli today, but Vinicius Jr showed us why he is one of the best young talents around. Every player has put in a great performance so far.
Dharma: Brazil look like the team to beat. Scary.
Total: Brazil looks beautifully terrifying.
Tirzah: Final France vs Brazil then?
GM: After this first half, you can imagine that Croatia are now booking return flights right after Friday night’s game! Brazil show their masterclass against South Korea.
Alf Wilson: For all the folks purring about Brazil, that late South Korea consolation goal took me out of my first century in World Cup fantasy football. Thanks guys !
