Neymar starts for Brazil in World Cup last-16 tie against South Korea

Neymar Jr. sustained an ankle injury against Serbia — AFP

DOHA, AFP: Neymar makes his return to Brazil’s starting line-up for Monday’s World Cup last-16 tie against South Korea.

The world’s most expensive footballer is back for the game at Doha’s Stadium 974 after missing Brazil’s last two matches with an ankle sprain he suffered in their opening 2-0 win over Serbia.

Neymar needs just two more goals to equal Pele’s all-time record tally of 77 for Brazil.

Full-back Danilo also comes back in, following injury as Tite makes 10 changes to his team after rotating his squad for Friday’s 1-0 defeat by Cameroon, which came after they had already wrapped up qualification for the knockout phase.

Eder Militao is the only player to keep his place, but the Real Madrid defender is expected to start right-back as Captain Thiago Silva and Marquinhos return at the heart of the back four. The winners will progress to a quarter-final on Friday against Croatia, who earlier defeated Japan on penalties after a 1-1 draw at the end of extra time.