Neymar lauds Messi, faces criticism and splurges on $1 million watch ahead of Brazil‑Japan World Cup clash

After returning to Brazil's line‑up for the World Cup, Neymar helped the team to a 3‑0 victory over Scotland and praised Lionel Messi, calling him a great friend and saying "Messi is a very good person off the pitch."

Ahead of Brazil's knockout match against Japan in Houston, Japanese forward Kento Shiogai said Neymar "is not the same as he used to be," suggesting the Brazilian star's form has declined. Shiogai added that France and Argentina are now the teams that command greater respect.

During the tournament break, Neymar visited Jacob & Company in New York and purchased a luxury watch valued at about one million dollars, a transaction he shared on social media.