Brazil's star striker Neymar says he is not interested in personal glory and his only aim is to help Brazil to their sixth World Cup title on home soil as the tournament begins today
Sao Paulo: Neymar says he is not interested in personal glory and his only aim is to help Brazil to a sixth World Cup title on home soil.
Brazilian star striker Neymar. File Pic
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Speaking on the eve of the tournament opener at Sao Paulo's Itaquerao stadium on Wednesday, the Barcelona star said goals and personal accolades would mean nothing during the June 12-July 13 tournament, reports Xinhua.
"I don't want to be the best player or the top scorer of the tournament, I want the title," the 22-year-old said, adding that fans' support would be crucial.
"What I want now is to be a champion with my team. Players expect a lot from the fans. They are the 12th player, or maybe even the most important player. If the fans are with us, it will be difficult to beat this Brazilian team."
The Selecao have been preparing at their Teresopolis base since May 26, taking part in countless training sessions, team-bonding exercises and tactical meetings.
They have also played two friendlies and beat Panama 4-0 and Serbia 1-0.
Neymar could not hide his eagerness for the tournament to begin.
"It's time. It's time that all Brazilians hope. I'm really happy to be here and I hope to help my team in the best way possible," Neymar said.
The forward said he dreamed of emulating his World Cup-winning idols Romario and Ronaldo.
"(They) were the players that inspired me the most," he said. "I remember Ronaldo in the 2002 World Cup. But there are other players outside of Brazil that inspire me, like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
"I honestly don't remember much of the 2002 World Cup. I know I cut my hair like Ronaldo and went to celebrate at my grandmother's, but I remember very little."
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