Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The World Cup in Brazil is coming into view and everyone is hoping this summer's carnival can take its place among some of the great tournaments of the past, but who will be the star of the show?
With 97 days to go until things kick-off, check out our latest instalment of 100 players to look out for at the competition below.
97. Neymar (Brazil)
Having signed for Barcelona in the summer of 2013, the 22-year-old Brazilian forward has enjoyed an impressive first season in Cataluna since his controversial move from South American outfit FC Santos and has continued his imperious form for the national side in the process.
In just 47 appearances for his country, Neymar has found the net 30 times leaving him just three behind former Barca man and England tormentor Ronaldinho – but still a staggering 47 behind Brazilian legend Pele. In a dress rehearsal for this year’s World Cup, he helped guide Brazil to the 2013 Confederations Cup title, contributing four goals to his side’s success including the second in their 3-0 rout of world champions Spain in the final.
In 2011, his strike against Flamengo - where he embarked on a mesmerising run past three defenders before finishing smartly – not only showed his incredible control at high speed but also earned him recognition from his fellow professionals in the form of the Fifa Puskas Award. Incredibly, in the two years that followed he made the top three for two more sublime efforts, one for domestic club Santos and another for his goal against Japan in the Confederations Cup.
Did you know? Neymar shares his birthday with Cristiano Ronaldo, Carlos Tevez and Paulo Maldini. That’d be some birthday party.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments