Messi, Ronaldo depart but Neymar arrives in Samara for Brazil v Mexico

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are out of the World Cup, but Ballon d’Or rival Neymar has arrived in Samara for Brazil’s last-16 tie against Mexico.

Brazil were not completely convincing in the group stage, drawing with Switzerland in a fiery opener before late goals from Philippe Coutinho and Neymar downed Costa Rica.

Tite’s men did look better when brushing Serbia aside, setting up a clash with a Mexico team who stunned holders Germany in their opening game at the tournament.

Neymar hurt his ankle in the Switzerland match but has started all three group games after recovering from a fractured foot suffered in February, with the world’s most expensive player travelling to Samara with his side ahead of Monday’s game.

Neymar is in the building #BRA #WorldCup @OmnisportNews pic.twitter.com/GitPvCwKR9

— Harry West (@West1882) June 30, 2018

Brazil fans were in party mood as they greeted their heroes at the team’s hotel, with Neymar potentially needing to follow Ronaldo’s lead in calling for supporters to keep quiet and allow him to sleep.

In contast, Ronaldo and Messi will soon be departing Russia to get ready for the 2018-19 domestic season, their World Cup dreams left in tatters.

#BRA boys in great spirits ahead of meeting #MEX in the #WorldCup last 16@OmnisportNews pic.twitter.com/h28KXcZBsi

— Harry West (@West1882) June 30, 2018

#BRA #WorldCup @OmnisportNews pic.twitter.com/mK4bkXqprT

— Harry West (@West1882) June 30, 2018