Brazil vs South Korea LIVE: World Cup 2022 result, goals and final score as sensational Selecao put on a show
World Cup favourites Brazil produced a performance to delight fans and terrify potential opponents on Monday as they ripped through South Korea with four first-half goals to secure a hugely impressive 4-1 victory in their last 16 clash.
They were ahead after seven minutes when Raphinha’s low cross reached Vinicius Jr and he expertly lifted the ball above the charging goalkeeper and three defenders.
Five minutes later it was 2-0 with a Neymar penalty and Richarlison added a brilliant third after a spell of juggling then a razor combination with Marquinhos and Thiago Silva that had Brazil’s delirious fans dancing and neutrals everywhere purring.
Lucas Paqueta volleyed in the fourth after 36 minutes and the five-times champions played the second half as an exhibition, denied more goals only by impressive Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, as they turned their attention to Friday’s quarter-final meeting with Croatia.
Korea worked tirelessly and bravely to try to limit the damage and were rewarded for their own attacking efforts when Paik Seung-ho smashed in a brilliant long-range shot beyond Alisson 13 minutes from time. Follow all the reaction below
Brazil vs South Korea
FT! Sensational Brazil sweep South Korea aside to set up Croatia quarter-final
76’ GOAL! South Korea pull one back with incredible Paik strike (4-1)
36’ GOAL! Paqueta volleys in Vinicius cross as Brazil add another in first half (4-0)
29’ GOAL! Richarlison finishes stunning team move as Brazil run riot (3-0)
13 GOAL! Neymar scores on injury return after Richarlison is fouled in box (2-0)
7’ GOAL! Vinicius Jr curls in sublime opener from Raphinha cross (1-0)
Croatia through after ending Japan’s dream World Cup run on penalties
Brazil prove they do not need Neymar, even with him on the pitch
21:45 , Michael Jones
“I feel good, I knew that I would now,” declared Neymar to his 189 million Instagram followers on the eve of this last-16 victory over South Korea, alongside images of him taking part in a Brazil training session. That’s a James Brown lyric, in case you hadn’t noticed, and it was a more than appropriate reference. We are, after all, talking about one of the hardest working men in showbusiness – the most heavily-sponsored footballer in the world no less, as evidenced by his appearance on every billboard in Doha that does not already bear the image of David Beckham.
But then this is also a natural born performer who, at his best, through his various thrusts, swerves and flourishes, is capable of leaving his audience in raptures. And not unlike the godfather of soul, just as his act is reaching a crescendo, as the crowd is approaching a point of near evangelical adulation, he has been known to suddenly collapse to the ground, thrash about in a state of pain, exhaustion and distress, and then exit stage left as a frail, broken man with the help of a handler. The parallels do not end there, either. Did you know James Brown campaigned for Richard Nixon?
Yet there is a difference and it is a key one: Brown would always eventually return to the stage rejuvenated, with 10-times the vigour of the man escorted off, and when he did, he never left his audience disappointed. Despite several attempts at similar resurrections, it has not always been possible to say the same of Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior – not when this is his third attempt at leading Brazil to a sixth World Cup trophy, not when the previous two ended with a fractured back and began with a broken foot respectively.
Brazil prove they don’t need Neymar, even with him on the pitch
What teams are still in World Cup 2022 and who has been eliminated?
21:42 , Michael Jones
The 2022 World Cup is in full swing as 32 nations began on 20 November aiming to lift the Jules Rimet trophy in Doha on 18 December.
Despite the many off-field issues around the tournament in Qatar, the group stage has thrown up plenty of thrills and spills, with Argentina losing to Saudi Arabia going down as one of the greatest shocks of any World Cup in history.
Japan also stunned Germany, while Spain and England racked up goals in statement opening wins.
The top two teams from each group go through to the round of 16, with group winners taking on the runners-up from a different group, while the third- and fourth-placed nations in each group are eliminated from the competition.
Here are the teams who have qualified for the quarter-finals:
What teams are still in the World Cup and who has been eliminated?
FT Brazil 4-1 South Korea
21:36 , Michael Jones
Neymar has been involved in 15 goals in his last 11 appearances for Brazil in all competitions (eight goals, seven assists), with each of his last six goals for the national side coming from the penalty spot.
FT Brazil 4-1 South Korea
21:33 , Michael Jones
Richarlison has scored 10 goals in his nine appearances for Brazil in all competitions in 2022, netting at least four goals more than any other player for the country this calendar year.
FT Brazil 4-1 South Korea
21:30 , Michael Jones
Brazil led 3-0 after just 29 minutes, the earliest they’ve gone three goals ahead in a single World Cup match.
In the end, it was just the second time they’ve scored four goals in the first half of a World Cup match, also doing so against Mexico in 1954.
For Pele
21:27 , Michael Jones
Brazil put on spectacular exhibition to delight World Cup and reach quarter-finals
21:23 , Michael Jones
It was a game that was basically over as a contest by seven minutes, but that you couldn’t take your eyes off for a second. That was because you might miss Brazil doing something spectacular, audacious or just the sort of moment that makes World Cup highlights for years and has fostered the country’s football lore.
It might have been a Vinicius lift, a Neymar roll or a Raphinha turn - or it could have been many such moments combining for goal after goal after goal, after goal. Qatar certainly got what they wanted in that sense, even if not enough people wanted to watch it given the number of empty seats at Stadium 974. It didn’t take long for this 4-1 win over South Korea to become a replica of the sort of gaudy exhibition match the state had staged well before hosting a World Cup. If you bring them, some people might come. There was at least no risk in restoring Neymar to the starting XI, since this was just another training game. Tite even got to the point where he was giving squad players like sub goalkeeper Weverton a run-out, as if it was a final group game.
There were some more solemn sentiments, mind, as Neymar carried a Pele flag onto the pitch for the players to showcase. He was no doubt admiring some of the imagination they’d shown before that.
Brazil put on spectacular exhibition to delight World Cup and reach quarter-finals
How Richarlison started and finished the most aesthetically pleasing goal of Qatar 2022
21:19 , Michael Jones
We’ve had long-range strikes. Pinpoint free-kicks. Even cheeky scoops. But Richarlison’s goal against South Korea – Brazil’s third in nothing short of a first-half demolition job against the self-sabotaging South Koreans – goes down as the most aesthetically pleasing goal of this World Cup so far. And that’s from a man who scored a scissor kick in the Selecao’s tournament opener.
Amid ghastly defending and positioning from a Korean team whose Qatar adventure collapsed quicker than they could possibly compute, Brazil took their opposition to the cleaners and their performance-level to new heights. And nothing epitomised the purism and panache of Brazilian football than the Tottenham striker’s third goal of the tournament.
As Casemiro looped an innocuous cross into the penalty area, by the standards of the first period the danger level seemed relatively low for South Korea. Headed high but not out, Richarlison scampered back towards the centre of the pitch to try what, frankly, he has made his career of: making something out of nothing.
How Richarlison crafted the most eye-catching goal of Qatar 2022
FT Brazil 4-1 South Korea
21:15 , Michael Jones
Brazil have now used all 26 members of their squad at the 2022 World Cup (including three goalkeepers), becoming the first side in World Cup history to use as many as 26 players at a single edition.
‘It’s like watching Strictly’: Roy Keane slams Brazil’s ‘disrespectful’ goal celebrations against South Korea
21:11 , Michael Jones
Roy Keane slammed Brazil’s “disrespectful” goal celebrations and said it was like watching ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ as the World Cup favourites raced into a four-goal lead against South Korea in the last-16.
Vinicius Jr gave Brazil the lead early on and Neymar doubled their advantage from the penalty spot inside 12 minutes.
Both goals were celebrated exuberantly, with Brazil manager Tite then getting involved in their third as Richarlison finished a sublime team move.
The dancing continued as Lucas Paqueta added a fourth with Brazil putting on a show with the best performance of the World Cup so far.
But Keane was not impressed with Brazil’s celebrations and argued that the Selecao had not shown enough respect to South Korea, with another half of the knockout match still to play.
Roy Keane slams Brazil’s ‘disrespectful’ goal celebrations against South Korea
Brazil vs South Korea player ratings: Vini Jr stars despite Neymar return
21:07 , Michael Jones
Brazil breezed past South Korea in the last 16 at the Qatar World Cup on Monday, taking apart their opponents 4-1 to set up a quarter-final clash with Croatia.
In what was surely the finest half of football played by one team at this tournament, Brazil scored four times before the break, with Vinicius Jr, Richarlison, Lucas Paqueta and a returning Neymar all finding the net – the latter from the penalty spot.
South Korea did have their chances but were repeatedly denied by the outstanding Alisson, before Paik Seung-Ho finally beat the Brazil goalkeeper with a piledriver strike in the second half.
It was little more than a consolation, however, as Son Heung-min and his teammates exited against the tournament favourites.
Here’s how Brazil’s players fared:
Brazil vs South Korea player ratings: Vini Jr stars despite Neymar return
FT Brazil 4-1 South Korea
21:03 , Michael Jones
Following the full-time whistle the Brazil players get together and unveil a banner for Pele, the Brazil legend who is currently in hospital.
Pele is Brazil’s top male goalscorer of all-time but Neymar (76) is just one goal behind him now and will likely move ahead of him during this tournament.
FT Brazil 4-1 South Korea
20:59 , Michael Jones
The only goal of the second half came to South Korea as Paik Seung-ho smoked in a glorious shot from outside the penalty area.
FT Brazil 4-1 South Korea
20:56 , Michael Jones
Three of the four quarter-final fixtures are now known.
The Netherlands face Argentina, France take on England and Croatia play Brazil. Who will join them in the last eight?
That question will be answered tomorrow as the winners of Morocco vs Spain and Portugal vs Switzerland will progress to the next round.
Full-time: Brazil 4-1 South Korea
20:54 , Michael Jones
90+4 mins: No we won’t. Brazil had the game sown up inside the first 30 minutes and certainly at half-time when they went into the break four goals up.
It was an electric and brilliant first half from the five time champions who took advantage of a poor tactical plan from South Korea to set up an easy victory.
South Korea managed to get a consolation goal but the task was too great for them this evening. It’s still been an impressive World Cup from the Asian side but their campaign ends at the last-16.
Brazil go on and will face Croatia next time out.
Brazil 4-1 South Korea
20:52 , Michael Jones
90 mins: Four minutes of added time to play. Will we get another goal? Preferably from South Korea to restore a bit more pride.
Brazil 4-1 South Korea
20:49 , Michael Jones
86 mins: South Korea get away with one after goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu gives the ball away. It’s played into Rodrygo who can’t finish it off the chance.
Brazil 4-1 South Korea
20:43 , Michael Jones
83 mins: Brazil are going to be taking on Croatia in the quarter-finals and have never lost to the European side in four meetings. If they get through that one there is the possibility that they will then face Argentina in the semis in what would be a blockbuster clash.
Brazil 4-1 South Korea
20:42 , Michael Jones
80 mins: This is a nice touch from Tite. He makes his two final substitutions bringing on Rodrygo for Neymar and third choice goalkeeper Weverton in place of Alisson.
Weverton was the only member of the Brazil squad not to get any minutes in the tournament so far and he’ll play out the rest of this last-16 tie.
GOAL! Brazil 4-1 South Korea (Paik,76’)⚽️
20:37 , Michael Jones
76 mins: South Korea get one back! Paik Seung-Ho, a Barcelona academy graduate, brings the ball under control after it’s headed out of the Brazilian box.
He’s 25-yards out from goal but blasts a left-footed effort at goal and catches it brilliantly. There’s a slight deflection which wrongfoots Alisson and he’s rooted to the spot as the ball finishes in the back of the net.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:36 , Michael Jones
75 mins: Is this performance reflective of Brazil’s pre-tournament moniker that they’re favourites to win the whole competition? Quite possibly.
This South Korean side defeated Portugal but it’s the second time in six months that Brazil have scored four+ goals against them.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:32 , Michael Jones
72 mins: Two more changes for Brazil now as Gabriel Martinelli and Bremer are brought on by Tite. Vinicius Jr and Danilo are the two players replaced.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:31 , Michael Jones
69 mins: Save! South Korea whip the ball in from the left and it comes all the way through to Hwang Hee-Chan. He blazes a fine shot at goal but is denied by the outstretched hand of Alisson.
He tips the ball into the back of Cho Gue-Sung who’s sprawled on the floor. It bobbles over to Son Heung-min who drills two shots at goal but whacks both into the desperate Marquinhos as the centre-back leaps across to block the ball.
Following the second shot the offside flag eventually goes up against Cho.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:28 , Michael Jones
66 mins: Brazil’s tempo and intensity has slackened, understandably. That’s giving South Korea a bit more confidence to press them higher up the pitch.
Lee Jae-Sung goes on a fine run through the middle of the pitch before sending the ball out wide.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:24 , Michael Jones
63 mins: Brazil’s corner comes to nothing and Tite decides to make a change. Eder Militao is taken off with Dani Alves being brought on for the final half an hour or so.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:23 , Michael Jones
60 mins: Save! Raphinha is the Brazilian that seems the most hungry for a goal. He weaves into the right side of the box and fizzes a shot at goal but it’s solid stop from goalkeeper Kim Seung-Gyu who turns the ball behind for a corner.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:17 , Michael Jones
57 mins: Brazil win a free kick smack, bang in front of goal. Neymar, Casemiro, and Raphinha are all standing over the dead ball before Casemiro jogs away.
Raphinha is the man to take it in the end and he wins a corner as the wall deflect his shot out of play.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:16 , Michael Jones
54 mins: Brazil are knocking the ball around with one touch passing, drawing South Korea into an attempted press before sending it up to the forward men who spin and run into space.
It’s confidence of the highest order and why not when you’re four goals to the good.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:11 , Michael Jones
51 mins: South Korea have made no change to their formation menaing they’re still set up with a back four that Brazil are storming past with ease.
Raphinha brings the ball into the right side of the box and looks to square a pass but the ball is blocked by Kim Young-Gwon.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:08 , Michael Jones
48 mins: Chance! South Korea almost have a way back into the game as Son Heung-min receives the ball on the left and cuts inside. He brings the ball just inside the box and shoots but is denied by a good body stop from Alisson who made himself big to keep out the effort.
Second half: Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:07 , Michael Jones
Brazil’s biggest ever victory at the World Cup is a 7-1 win. They’re easily on course to better that tonight. No changes from Tite at the break but Paulo Bento has made a couple.
Jung Woo-Young and Kim Jin-Su are off with Son Jun-Ho and Hong Chul the two men introduced.
HT Brazil 4-0 South Korea
20:00 , Michael Jones
Neymar has become the third Brazilian player to score in three different editions of the World Cup, alongside Ronaldo and Pelé.
HT Brazil 4-0 South Korea
19:58 , Michael Jones
This is just the second time Brazil have scored four goals in the opening half of a World Cup match, also doing so against Mexico in 1954.
HT Brazil 4-0 South Korea
19:55 , Michael Jones
Half-time: Brazil 4-0 South Korea
19:51 , Michael Jones
45+5 mins: A bruising first half comes to an end for South Korea but the party has only just started for Brazil. They’ve turned up tonight and given the fans and watching supporters around the world the best 45 minutes of the 2022 World Cup so far.
It’s been blistering, sweeping and clinical from the five time champions.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
19:47 , Michael Jones
45 mins: Five minutes of added time to play at the end of the first time. South Korea will just want to get into the changing room and reset. They’ve been blown away tonight.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
19:44 , Michael Jones
42 mins: Will Brazil step off the gas and make some changes in the second half? That’s doubtful considering they’re playing Croatia next and look a class above them in this tournament so far.
There’ll be a few squad players wanting to get on the pitch though.
Brazil 4-0 South Korea
19:39 , Michael Jones
39 mins: Brazil will have been wounded by their shock defeat to Cameroon in the last game of the group stages - even though their second string players were on the pitch - yet they’ve responded in immaculate fashion tonight.
Four goals before half-time with six minutes left to play.
GOAL! Brazil 4-0 South Korea (Paqueta, 36’)⚽️
19:38 , Michael Jones
36 mins: Lucas Pacqueta gets in on the action and scores his first ever World Cup goal. Brazil storm at the South Korean defence and set up a four vs four situation.
Vinicius Junior brings the ball into the left side of the area then chips it over to the arriving Paqueta who volleys it into the bottom left hand corner!
4-0 before half-time... 🇧🇷
...are we looking at the potential World Cup winners? 👀#ITVFootball | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/smShRPC9sP— ITV Football (@itvfootball) December 5, 2022
Brazil 3-0 South Korea
19:34 , Michael Jones
32 mins: South Korea may be starting to think about game-management. The match is over and Brazil are going to win at a canter but Paulo Bento won’t want his team getting hammered seven or eight nil - which is a possibility right now.
GOAL! Brazil 3-0 South Korea (Richarlison, 29’)⚽️
19:29 , Michael Jones
29 mins: Brazil are running away with it now!
How to describe this? From a corner Brazil recycle the ball into the box and an attempted clearance from Hwang brings the ball to Richarlison. He brings the ball under control with three or four skillful headers before sending the ball forward and sprinting into the box.
Two passes later Brazil have broken down the South Korean defence and Richarlison flicks the ball past Kim Seung-Gyu to add to Brazil’s ever growing lead.
Simply incredible.
"Eye-catching, intricate... typically Brazilian!" 🇧🇷🙌
How good is Richarlison for this Brazil side?! 😲#ITVFootball | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/IbJbKku3j2— ITV Football (@itvfootball) December 5, 2022
Brazil 2-0 South Korea
19:27 , Michael Jones
27 mins: Close! Neymar is fed the ball in space in front of goal. He’s got Vinicius to his left and Richarlison to the right but decides to drive into the box himself and look to set up a shot.
He overruns the opportunity but wins a corner that is then easily dealt with by South Korea.
Brazil 2-0 South Korea
19:25 , Michael Jones
Brazil 2-0 South Korea
19:24 , Michael Jones
22 mins: This is just the second time Brazil have scored twice in the opening 13 minutes of a World Cup game, previously doing so against Costa Rica in 2002.
They went on to win 5-2. In all honesty I can’t see South Korea getting two goals against them tonight.
Brazil 2-0 South Korea
19:19 , Michael Jones
19 mins: Son Heung-min looks to start something for South Korea after receiving the ball in his own half. He shifts around one midfielder but only has Cho Gue-Sung up the pitch with him.
A short run with the ball carries him into Brazil’s half but he loses possession with options to pass to and the Selecao take control once again.
Brazil 2-0 South Korea
19:15 , Michael Jones
16 mins: People will say that the penalty was a soft one to give which it was but they still need to get put away and Neymar delivered beautifully for this side.
Brazil are two goals up inside 15 minutes and look nailed on for a quarter-final place already.
GOAL! Brazil 2-0 South Korea (Neymar, 13’)⚽️
19:14 , Michael Jones
13 mins: Neymar takes the penalty for Brazil. He switches up his run up pace then coolly slots a side-footed effort past Kim Seung-Gyu.
Brazil double their lead and Neymar moves to within one goal of Pele’s Brazilian record.
Casual as you like! 🇧🇷@neymarjr returns from injury to get his name on the scoresheet with this exquisite penalty! 👌
...but should it have been given? 🤔#ITVFootball | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/U6vrV6VuYk— ITV Football (@itvfootball) December 5, 2022
Penalty to Brazil!
19:12 , Michael Jones
Brazil 1-0 South Korea
11 mins: A diagonal ball comes over to the left side of the box where Richarlison looks to bring it under control. He’s clipped by Jung Woo-Young and goes down in the penalty area.
The referee points to the spot and VAR doesn’t overturn the decision.
Brazil 1-0 South Korea
19:11 , Michael Jones
10 mins: It looks like a long way back for South Korea already. They last time they faced Brazil back in June they lost 5-1 and this early goal could spark another Brazilian masterclass.
GOAL! Brazil 1-0 South Korea (Vinicius Jr, 7’)⚽️
19:07 , Michael Jones
7 mins: Brazil lead! Well, that didn’t take long.
Raphinha shimmies the ball inside of Hwang In-Beom and plays a one-two to get into the right side of the penalty area. He pulls the ball back across the box where Neymar lets it run through to Vinicius Junior.
He takes a touch to set himself before guiding and fine finish into the far corner!
Take your time.
Pick your spot.
Pull the trigger! 🙌@vinijr puts Brazil in the lead inside 10 minutes with this class finish! 🇧🇷🤌#ITVFootball | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/YNXcxohJDQ— ITV Football (@itvfootball) December 5, 2022
Brazil 0-0 South Korea
19:06 , Michael Jones
6 mins: Brazil swiftly move the ball across the pitch before Eder Militao’s ball out to Raphinha is cut out by Kim Jin-Su. Raphinha attempts to quickly recover it but is too forceful in his tackle on the South Korean left-back and gives away a free kick.
Brazil 0-0 South Korea
19:04 , Michael Jones
3 mins: A forward pass from Marquinhos comes up to Richarlison who brings it under control before slipping a pass over to Neymar. He looks to get Richarlison into the box but his through ball is blocked and intercepted by Kim Young-Gwon.
It’s been a decent start from South Korea who don’t look too worried about taking on the number one ranked side in the world.
Kick off: Brazil 0-0 South Korea
19:01 , Michael Jones
South Korea get this last-16 tie started and play the ball through the middle of the pitch where it’s won by Brazil. Tite’s side are heavily stacked in favour of attack tonight so expect some goals at the 974 stadium.
Brazil vs South Korea
18:57 , Michael Jones
Here come the two teams.
The national anthems are played and sung. The business of knockout World Cup football gets underway next.
Jesus and Telles out of World Cup
18:54 , Michael Jones
Gabriel Jesus and Alex Telles have been ruled out of the rest of the World Cup after picking up injuries in Brazil’s 1-0 defeat by Cameroon on Friday.
Brazil’s football association said it was “impossible” for them to participate any further in the tournament in Qatar. A statement read:
“Players Alex Telles and Gabriel Jesus underwent tests on Saturday morning accompanied by Brazil team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar and a MRI on their right knees confirmed the extent of the injuries and the impossibility of recovery in time to participate in the Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022.”
Son Heung-min reveals ‘longest six minutes’ of his life as South Korea waited on World Cup progress
18:51 , Michael Jones
Son Heung-min described South Korea’s agonising wait for confirmation of their place in World Cup knockout rounds as “the longest six minutes of my life”.
The Korean captain set up Hwang Hee-chan to score a 91st minute winner against Portugal and leave the Taeguk Warriors hoping Uruguay would be unable to add to their two-goal lead over Ghana in the other Group H match.
Another goal would have taken Uruguay into the last 16 at Korea’s expense on goal-difference and the squad huddled together on the Education City Stadium pitch watching on digital devices as the South Americans ultimately fell short.
Son Heung-min’s ‘longest six minutes’ as South Korea waited on World Cup progress
Brazil vs South Korea
18:47 , Michael Jones
The fans are ready for this one. Brazil are the favourites to get through but can South Korea provide another shock after their victory over Portugal last time out.
Brazil vs South Korea
18:44 , Michael Jones
This will be South Korea’s first World Cup knockout match since 2010, when they were beaten by Uruguay in the last 16.
Brazil vs South Korea
18:41 , Michael Jones
Son Heung-min registered his first goal contribution of the 2022 World Cup in the 91st minute of South Korea’s previous game, assisting Hwang Hee-Chan for the goal that secured their qualification from the group.
He’s still looking for his first goal of the current tournament, and has only scored with one of his last 13 shots at the World Cup (vs Germany in 2018).
Brazil vs South Korea
18:38 , Michael Jones
Brazil have progressed from each of their last seven second-round matches at the World Cup. They were last eliminated at this stage in 1990 against Argentina.
Brazil vs South Korea
18:35 , Michael Jones
Less than half an hour away from kick off.
Brazil vs South Korea
18:32 , Michael Jones
Brazil have lost four of their last 10 matches at the World Cup. Their previous four defeats in the competition were spread across 36 matches.
Will they suffer a shock defeat tonight?
Pele’s family reject reports of Brazil legend being in palliative care
18:29 , Michael Jones
Brazil great Pele has not been moved to palliative care, one of his daughters said on Sunday, downplaying reports that he was in end-of-life care after the 82-year-old was hospitalised last week to re-evaluate his treatment as he battles colon cancer.
One of the greatest footballers of all time, Pele had a tumour removed from his colon in September 2021 and has been receiving hospital care on a regular basis.
Newspaper Folha de S.Paulo reported on Saturday that he was under palliative care after chemotherapy stopped having the expected results.
Pele’s doctors have not confirmed that information and his daughter, Flavia Nascimento, said the report was wide of the mark.
Pele’s family reject reports of Brazil legend being in palliative care
Who will face Croatia in the quarter-finals?
18:26 , Michael Jones
Croatia’s victory over Japan in the last-16 means that four of the five current quarter-finalists have all come from Europe - the exception being Argentina.
Brazil and South Korea go head-to-head tonight to see who will face Croatia in the next round.
The quarter-finals will be at least 50% Uefa teams for the ninth time since they re-introduced the stage in 1986. The only time it had fewer was 2002.
— Miguel Delaney (@MiguelDelaney) December 5, 2022
Brazil vs South Korea prediction
18:23 , Michael Jones
Brazil won’t have it all their own way but should still have too much firepower for their South Korea to deal with across 90 minutes especially with a fully refreshed forward line that includes Neymar, Vinicius Jr and Richarlison.
Brazil 2-1 South Korea.
Brazil vs South Korea
18:20 , Michael Jones
This will be the eighth meeting between Brazil and South Korea but the first ever competitive meeting between the two sides.
Brazil have won six of the previous seven matches most recently a 5-1 victory in June. The other game ended in a win for the South Koreans.
Brazil vs South Korea team changes
18:17 , Michael Jones
Tite has made 10 changes to the Brazil side who lost to Cameroon in their final group match. Real Madrid defender Eder Militao is the only one who remains.
Neymar returns following his ankle injury too.
There are two changes to the South Korea team who dramatically beat Portugal last time out. Kwon Kyung-won and Lee Kang-In drop to the bench
Hwang Hee-chan and defender Kim Min-Jae return.
Japan’s fairytale run finally runs out of road
18:14 , Michael Jones
Japan have never made it past the last-16 at a World Cup. Failures at 2002 and 2010 still stung when 2018 became the most heartbreaking of all, Nacer Chadli’s latest of late goals seeing Belgium roar back from two down in the second-half to beat them at the last.
The pain of that night in Rostov has lived with this Japanese group ever since. “I have never forgotten,” Yuto Nagatomo would say in the build-up to this latest attempt to write new history. He will remember this, too.
Instead it was the same old story, the fairytale this side has been on at this World Cup brutally ended in the most painful fashion possible by Croatia, a bitter final chapter the uplifting tale that came before it didn’t remotely deserve.
Japan’s fairytale run finally runs out of road
Croatia shatter Japan’s World Cup dream as experience proves key in penalty shoot-out
18:11 , Michael Jones
Japan had cut down two former World Cup winners but the 2018 runners-up ended their run as the scourge of the European powers. The Blue Samarai were the conquerors of Germany and Spain but were denied a third major scalp by a hat-trick of penalty saves from Dominik Livakovic.
In an extraordinary display, the Croatian goalkeeper guessed right three times out of four, denying Takumi Minamino, Kaoru Mitoma and finally Maya Yoshida to extend the World Cup career of Luka Modric. Croatia’s captain had gone off before the first shootout of the 2022 tournament. In his absence, Nikola Vlasic, Marcelo Brozovic and Mario Pasalic all converted, rendering Marko Livaja’s miss irrelevant and ensuring the Dinamo Zagreb goalkeeper was the hero. Only his compatriot Danijel Subasic and Portugal’s Ricardo had ever made three saves in a World Cup penalty shootout before. Livakovic joined them.
If Croatia can savour shootouts, Japan must dread them. Zlatko Dalic’s team had twice prevailed on penalties in their run to the final in 2018. For Japan, as in 2010, a last-16 tie was decided on spot kicks. They have still never reached a World Cup quarter-final and can rue the way they lost an advantage they gained in an excellent first half.
Croatia shatter Japan’s World Cup dream as experience proves key in penalty shoot-out
Japan and Croatia provide reminder of the risk and the reluctance of knockout World Cup football
18:07 , Michael Jones
Half the World Cup 2022 round of 16 was over and done with before we knew it, little of it truly throwing up any possibility of a shock result or, indeed, much doubt over who would progress.
Sure, Australia came within a big Emi Martinez arm of forcing an equaliser, but it was wildly against the run of the game and after one massively deflected goal, and sure, both England and France were frustrated for a bit.
It didn’t last, and once the first goal went in, all uncertainty disappeared.
For all intents and purposes, each of the first four round of 16 clashes were over and done by at half-time, given none gave up their initial lead, and three were absolutely wrapped up by the hour mark.
Japan and Croatia provide reminder of risk and reluctance of knockout football
Daring Japan showcase brave new era at World Cup despite penalty heartache
18:06 , Michael Jones
A cruel end for Japan, but this gutsy and adventurous World Cup campaign can inspire an exciting future.
Falling 3-1 on penalties after handing Croatia a fright, Japan must harness the pain of Takumi Minamino Kaoru Mitoma and Maya Yoshida’s costly misses to embolden this exciting team, who entertained throughout their time in Qatar.
Denied the last eight berth they covet so much, they can have few regrets from this daring tie, which delivered a brave gameplan from the outset.
Daring Japan showcase brave new era at World Cup despite penalty heartache
Brazil vs South Korea line-ups
18:03 , Michael Jones
Brazil XI: Alisson, Danilo, Thiago Silva, Marquinhos, Militao, Paqueta, Casemiro, Vinicius Jr, Neymar, Raphinha, Richarlison
South Korea XI: Kim S.G, Kim J.S, Kim Y.G, Kim M.J, Kim N.H, Jung, Hwang I.B, Son H.M, Lee J.S, Hwang H.C, Cho G.S
Brazil vs South Korea
17:56 , Michael Jones
Still to come tonight, Brazil look to set up a clash with Croatia as they take on South Korea in their last-16 tie. The team news it out with the highlight being Neymar’s return to the Brazil starting line-up.
Full line-ups coming next...
Croatia defeat Japan 3-1 on penalties
17:52 , Michael Jones
Croatia’s record in World Cup penalty shootouts is now three from three having also beaten both Denmark and Russia in 2018 during the last 16 and quarter-finals.
In comparison Japan’s is now wins from two. They also lost to Paraguay in 2010.
Japan vs Croatia player ratings: Junya Ito and Yuto Nagatomo Ito shine before shootout defeat
17:49 , Michael Jones
Croatia beat Japan on penalties to advance to the quarter-finals of the World Cup in Qatar, after the last-16 tie finished 1-1 after extra time.
Japan took the lead through Daizen Maeda on the cusp of half time, before Ivan Perisic equalised with a second-half header.
Neither side could find a winner before the end of normal or extra time, but it was Croatia who emerged victorious in the shootout.
Here’s how the players fared:
Japan vs Croatia player ratings: Junya Ito and Yuto Nagatomo shine before shootout
Croatia defeat Japan 3-1 on penalties
17:46 , Michael Jones
Croatia have won each of their last three penalty shootouts in the World Cup. They came from behind and levelled the match before holding their nerve in the shootout.
Luka Modric and co. go on, can they reach the final once again?
Penalties: Japan 1-3 Croatia
17:44 , Michael Jones
GOAL! Mario Pasalic finds the bottom left corner and sends Croatia into the quarter-finals!
Take a bow Dominik Livakovic. He saved three out of the four Japanese penalties.
Croatia win 3-1 on penalties.
Penalties: Japan 1-2 Croatia
17:43 , Michael Jones
MISS! Japan’s captain Maya Yoshida goes to the goalkeeper’s right and Livakovic gets there again! He pushes the ball clear.
Croatia can win this now.
Penalties: Japan 1-2 Croatia
17:42 , Michael Jones
MISS! Marko Livaja is the next man up for Croatia. He labours up to the ball and flicks it over to the left where the ball strikes the post and bounces wide!
Penalties: Japan 1-2 Croatia
17:41 , Michael Jones
GOAL! Takuma Asano scores! Japan are on the board.
Penalties: Japan 0-2 Croatia
17:40 , Michael Jones
GOAL! Marcelo Brozovic sends his penalty straight down the middle and puts Croatia two in front!
Penalties: Japan 0-1 Croatia
17:40 , Michael Jones
MISS! Kaoru Mitoma scuffs a soft effort into the bottom left corner and Livakovic dives across to palm this one away as well!
Penalties: Japan 0-1 Croatia
17:39 , Michael Jones
GOAL! Nikola Vlasic smokes his effort into the left side netting and beats Shuichi Gonda.
Penalties: Japan 0-0 Croatia
17:38 , Michael Jones
MISS! The former Liverpool man, Takumi Minamino, takes the first penalty. He sends it low to Dominik Livakovic’s left and the goalkeeper drops to keep it out!
Not a great penalty. Advantage Croatia.
Penalties: Japan 0-0 Croatia
17:37 , Michael Jones
Croatia have been in this situation many times before. Are they the favourites to go through? Or does it not really matter in a penalty shootout?
It seems that Japan have won the coin toss and are seemingly up first.
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
17:33 , Michael Jones
120+1 mins: There goes the whistle to end extra-time. This match is going to penalties! Croatia won their first two knockout games of the last World Cup on penalties so they’ll be confident.
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
17:31 , Michael Jones
117 mins: Mitoma glances a header towards goal but Livakovic clings onto the ball to keep it out. Borna Barisic collects a yellow card for a heavy tackle too.
Penalties are drawing ever closer.
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
17:26 , Michael Jones
114 mins: There’s a bit of pressure coming from Croatia now. They win a throw in deep in Japan’s half and Josip Juranovic flings a long one into the penalty area.
The ball gets flicked on into the middle but Shuichi Gonda is off his line quickly and confidently plucks it out of the air.
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
17:23 , Michael Jones
111 mins: Croatia win the ball in midfield and work it nicely out to Majer on the right wing. He drives up alongisde the box before swinging in a deep cross.
The Europeans win a corner but when it comes into the middle Shuichi Gonda comes out and punches the ball clear.
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
17:20 , Michael Jones
108 mins: The final part of this last-16 tie gets underway. Hidemasa Morita goes off for Japan with Ao Tanaka replacing him. Marko Livaja is also brought on and he replaces substitute Ante Budimir for Croatia.
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
17:15 , Michael Jones
105+2 mins: The first period of extra-time comes to an end with no change to the scoreline. They only real excitement came from Kaoru Mitoma’s storming run and strike but even that wasn’t enough to beat Dominik Livakovic.
15 minutes to play before penalties.
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
17:12 , Michael Jones
105 mins: Chance! Japan have roared into life at the end of the first half of extra-time. Kaoru Mitoma carries the ball down the left wing before cutting inside and blasting a shot at Dominik Livakovic who sticks out his right hand and keeps the shot out!
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
17:09 , Michael Jones
102 mins: Perisic receives the ball in the box from a throw in and turns the ball towards goal. Sakai blocks the shot but it comes back to Perisic who sees a second attempt blocked by Ito.
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
17:07 , Michael Jones
99 mins: All of Croatia’s knockout games, except the final, at the 2018 World Cup went to extra time, and they progressed in all three. Will they get the win again tonight?
Croatia’s talisman and captain, Luka Modric, is taken off now as is Mateo Kovacic. Nikola Vlasic and Lovro Majer are the two men to come on.
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
17:04 , Michael Jones
96 mins: Livakovic sends the ball up the pitch and picks out Perisic who flicks the ball on to Budimir. The Croatian forward is tackled by Sakai who sends the ball out for a throw in.
Croatia send the ball back into play and work it to their back line to build from the back again.
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
17:00 , Michael Jones
93 mins: Japan win an early corner that comes curling over to Shogo Taniguchi in the middle of the Croatian penalty area. He wins the header but sends his effort wide of the target.
Japan lost their only World Cup match that went to extra time - 5-4 on penalties against Paraguay in the 2010 last 16.
ET Japan 1-1 Croatia
16:59 , Michael Jones
So, another 30 minutes of play to go before a potential penalty shootout. Who will reach the quarter-finals?
Extra-time: Japan 1-1 Croatia
16:55 , Michael Jones
Perisic rescues Croatia once again.
Full-time: Japan 1-1 Croatia
16:52 , Michael Jones
90+4 mins: Nothing to separate the teams as the whistle goes to signal the end of 90 minutes. Ivan Perisic cancelled out Daizen Maeda’s opener to bring Croatia level and take the match to extra-time.
Croatia have lots of experience in these situations so they have to be the favourites to go on and win now.
Japan 1-1 Croatia
16:48 , Michael Jones
90 mins: Four minutes of added time to play before extra-time. Mateo Kovacic slides into a tackle on Junya Ito and picks up a yellow card after taking out the man.
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