Five-time champs Brazil’s quest of winning a sixth World Cup crown were dealt a massive blow as cavalier fullback Marcelo suffered an injury early into their 2018 FIFA World Cup Group F tie with Serbia.
Marcelo, who plies his trade for Real Madrid, is arguably the best left-back in world football at the moment and his injury could seriously derail the South American’s hopes in Russia.
Dani Alves was ruled out prior to the tournament, with the untested Fagner and the inconsistent Danilo coming into the squad due to his absence.
Felipe Luis replaced his inconsolablecompatriot in the 10th minute itself, with the score 0-0.
No official reason has been discolosed, but it looks like a muscular injury as it came fairly early into the tie. If it is a significant tear, the left-back’s tournament could well be over.
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Brazil, with four points from two matches, are not yet assured of a spot in the knockout stages. Switzerland, paying bottom-ranked Costa Rica, have five points as well but a slightly inferior goal difference.
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Serbia are in the mix as well, with three points, but will need to beat Brazil if they are to harbour any hopes of progressing.