Brazil’s men’s soccer team is betting on a talented trio of attacking players to try to finally break through and win Olympic gold.
Star striker Neymar and promising youngsters Gabriel Jesus and Gabigol will lead Brazil’s attack when the hosts debut at the Rio Games against South Africa on Thursday in Brasilia. There are high expectations about the front three, touted by most Brazilians as the best forwards the country has available.
Neymar has already established himself as a top player with Barcelona, while Gabriel Jesus and Gabigol are considered Brazil’s next big stars, 19-year-olds who are set to make their move to big European teams.
“It’s easy when you get to play with Neymar and Gabriel Jesus by your side,” Gabigol said. “We need to stay near each other to try to find spaces in the defense. We have to take advantage of each other’s qualities.”
Gabigol recently received an offer from Italian club Juventus worth 20 million euros, but the youngster is yet to decide his future. There are reports that Inter Milan and other top clubs are also after him. The sturdy and skillful striker currently plays for Santos, the same team where Neymar thrived before leaving for Barcelona.