Roberto Firmino can outshine Neymar for Brazil

International friendly
12.30am Friday night

Brazil should comfortably outclass a youthful USA side at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey and Roberto Firmino could be the star turn for the South American superstars.

Neymar is favourite to score first as he looks to bounce back from a disappointing World Cup but Firmino looks set to be the man charged with playing the central striking role after Gabriel Jesus was dumped following his goalless summer in Russia.

Firmino, even in his brief super-sub appearances, looked a bright spark for Brazil at the World Cup, scoring against Mexico, and the Liverpool forward also warmed up for the tournament with a goal against Croatia at his club's home ground of Anfield.

Brazil should win easily enough with Tite likely to pick a strong side which will reportedly feature Douglas Costa alongside Neymar and Firmino in the front three, supported by a midfield trio of Philippe Coutinho, Casemiro and Manchester United's Fred.

USA, with a squad average age of just over 23, will be missing their star turn Christian Pulisic and it remains unclear whether caretaker coach Dave Sarachan will stick with the five-man defence that helped them draw with France in June or revert to a 4-4-2.

Whatever the system Columbus Crew cat Zack Steffen is likely to be a busy man.

Recommendation
R Firmino first goalscorer
1pt 9-2 general

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