Paquetá: My bond with Vini dates back to our Flamengo days

Brazil midfielder Lucas Paquetá has declared that the national team's dominant 3-0 victory over Haiti marks a crucial step in their World Cup development. He also welcomed Neymar's return to full training. The 28-year-old Paquetá was a standout performer, providing a superb assist to childhood friend Vinicius and playing a key role in one of Matheus Cunha's goals against Haiti.

“I believe we played a good match, aligning with our expectations to improve technically and build our play; we secured a solid win,” Paquetá stated at a press conference in New Jersey. “This match gives us the confidence to continue improving as the tournament progresses.” Brazil also received positive news with Neymar participating in his first full training session with the squad on Sunday. Paquetá emphasized that the number 10 remains a vital figure for the national team.

“We are all incredibly happy to have him back, training again and on the pitch with us,” Paquetá said. “He is an absolutely vital player for our national team; he has a wonderful history here and can still help us immensely. He is very important, just like every other player in the squad. We are delighted for him, happy he’s back, and hope he returns to the pitch as soon as possible to help us.”

Paquetá also praised Vinicius, his former Flamengo teammate, highlighting their long-standing connection. “We’ve had a wonderful friendship for a very long time,” Paquetá shared. “I first saw Vini when he was very young; we’ve had this bond since our time at Flamengo. He’s someone I admire greatly; I have immense respect for him. Without a doubt, being here with him and experiencing another World Cup together is incredibly special for us.”