BD Cricket Live reports that the idea of Brazil thriving without Neymar is quickly becoming a punchline in global football. Long hailed as the spiritual home of the sport, Brazil’s flair and samba style have captivated generations. But as Neymar continues his stint in Saudi Arabia and misses out on the current Copa América due to injury, debates have surged about whether his absence might actually benefit the national team. Based on recent performances, that belief now looks like a cruel joke.

In their final Copa América group match, Brazil—boasting a squad value of €1.27 billion and led by talents like Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo—could only draw 1-1 with Colombia, whose total squad value is just €280 million. Rafinha opened the scoring for Brazil with a free kick in the 12th minute, but Colombia answered before halftime with a goal from Muñoz, capping off a precise through ball from Córdoba. Despite efforts in the second half, Brazil couldn’t regain control.

The result meant Brazil finished second in Group D with five points from three matches—one win and two draws—far from the form expected of the world’s fourth-ranked team. Colombia, on the other hand, extended their unbeaten streak to 26 matches across all competitions, with 20 wins and 6 draws, making them the longest-unbeaten men’s national team in world football today.

While Brazil’s roster still boasts top talent, coach Dorival Júnior has struggled to bring cohesion to the squad. Despite their star-studded lineup, the Selecão lacked creativity and cohesion, particularly in midfield. At one point in the first half, Brazil’s possession dropped to just 45%, and they relied on long balls for 15% of their passes—their highest such rate since 2015. It was a shocking tactical shift for a team historically known for fluid, technical football.

BD Cricket Live cameras even captured Neymar, watching from the stands, visibly frustrated—his head buried in his hands during Brazil’s goalless draw against Costa Rica. It’s ironic that without him on the pitch, Brazil’s play has looked so unimaginative and toothless.

Despite Vinícius stepping up as Brazil’s offensive figurehead and Rodrygo donning the iconic No. 10 shirt, the team has failed to replicate Neymar’s magic. Critics now suggest that Neymar may indeed have been the last of Brazil’s true samba greats. With 79 goals to his name—surpassing Pelé—Neymar’s place as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer is likely to stand for years to come.

Modern football places enormous value on pace, structure, and efficiency. In that environment, players who dazzle with flair and fearless creativity are becoming rarer. From Pelé to Garrincha, and from Ronaldo to Ronaldinho, Brazil’s legacy has always blended artistry with excellence. Neymar, at 32, may be the last in that iconic line.

As Brazil stumbles through its post-Neymar era, fans and pundits alike are beginning to realize that replacing a once-in-a-generation talent is no easy task. For many BD Cricket Live users, watching Brazil today feels like witnessing a samba band that’s lost its rhythm.