Marquinhos hits back at Japan star's 'arrogant' jibe about Neymar

The atmosphere for the World Cup round of 32 tie between Brazil and Japan heated up off the field after controversial statements from Wolfsburg striker Kento Shiogai. Shiogai said Neymar "wasn't the same anymore" and suggested Brazil no longer commands the same respect; his words quickly resonated in the Brazilian training camp in Houston.

Captain Marquinhos said the squad is using the criticism as fuel. In an interview with Caze TV he said: "It's good that they keep talking to keep motivating our team. We've been in the United States for a month, working with a lot of humility. We leave that talk to the opponents, let them keep talking a lot to motivate us." While coach Carlo Ancelotti kept a diplomatic stance, Marquinhos was more direct about the Blue Samurai's attitude: "It's a fact that football today is very balanced.

It's about having intelligence, wisdom, maybe it was a bit of arrogance on their part. Brazil continues to be a great team. It's about showing our strength, quality...

United States, Houston

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