Better, the best is yet to come

Some relief, some worry for Brazil too. They rolled up Cameroon 4-1 on way to the knockout phase, producing some scintillating football and showing some problems as well.

Neymar of Brazil controls the ball against Allan Nyom of Cameroon during their Group A match on June 23, 2014 in Brasilia, Brazil. Photo: Getty Images

Coach Luiz Felipe Scholari must have done a few fixing after the first two matches against Croatia and Mexico. The Selecao looked more organised, penetrative and entertaining Tuesday. Though the midfield is still somewhat mis-joined, it could supply a lot of passes upfront and create good space for the strikers.

Brazil's forward Fred (9) scores a goal during their Group A football match against Cameroon in Brasilia on June 23, 2014. Photo: Getty Images

Striker Neymar looked a man without nerves. The Brazilian poster-boy was more cool, composed and menacing than he was against Mexico, custodian of which had denied him at least two goals. Only 22-year-old, he is already the core of Brazil's quest for the sixth World Cup. The young maestro showed no signs of the burden of hopes on his shoulders as the fleet-footed footballer went on to ravage the Cameroon defence, right from the start and almost at his sweet will. His two goals came from one-touch stroke of brilliance. You have to love those eye-pleasing arts. Two other goals were struck home by Fernandinho and Fred, which is certainly a huge sigh of relief for Scholari. It will certainly ease the pressure off Neymar to a great extent.

Neymar of Brazil controls the ball against Allan Nyom of Cameroon during their Group A match on June 23, 2014 in Brasilia, Brazil. Photo: Getty Images

There are concerns too for the coach despite the lopsided win. The defence that was considered to be the world's best this time suddenly appeared vulnerable against a trouble-torn Cameroon, which missed services of top three players including Samuel Eto and midfielder Song. Even with the depleted strength, Cameroon could easily open up the Brazil fort.

The midfield is still not one single unit yet. Scholari has to find out the missing cog in his midfield engine before the knockout phase. Midfielder Oscar is undoubtedly gifted and a constant source of passes upfront. But none of Paulinho, Ramirez and Willian could come up with that much of hope, at least not as yet. This fixing should top Scholari's do-list before his team heads into the knock-out match against Chile on June 28.   

Fans and pundits saw it as a big relief for the five-time champions as they could, by being group leaders, avoid high-scoring the Netherlands. Lovingly called Big Phil, Scholari is however far from being thrilled. He was uncomfortable, and did not like the prospect of taking on another South American country. Why the veteran coach, who inspired Brazil to their fifth Cup, is wary of Chile? He shows four reasons. Chile is a difficult side as they are South Americans, they have the strength, they are organised and they have the will. "If I could choose, I would have picked someone else," he said after the Cameroon match.

Now that remark really should pour cold water on the Brazilian enthusiasm. So, brace yourself for a big-time South American battle. Let's wait to see what the big man has up his sleeve.