Croatia and Brazil are set to square off on Friday with a spot in the World Cup semifinals up for grabs. Read on for our Croatia-Brazil pick and prediction.

Brazil have been enchanting during this World Cup, with many looking at the side led by Tite as the favorite to lift the supreme crown for a record sixth time. The South Americans had no trouble beating South Korea in the Round of 16 and are now focusing on the clash with the 2018 finalists.

Croatia look less dangerous than they were four years ago, but they are still a team capable of surprising. They made it into the quarterfinals after winning against Japan on penalties, showing the football world once more that pragmatism and stubborn tactics can lead to success.  Here is our Croatia vs. Brazil pick (odds via PointsBet; pick confidence based on a 1-to-5-star scale).

Croatia vs. Brazil Game Info

• Date: Friday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. ET
• TV: FS1
• Location: Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan, Qatar
• Weather: 78 degrees, 3% chance of precipitation, 15-mph winds

Croatia vs. Brazil Pick

Neymar Anytime Goalscorer (+125) * * * *

The Brazilian forward has made a full recovery after his injury in the group stage and is back leading the Brazilian orchestra. Neymar has been in impressive form since the start of the World Cup and manager Tite counts on him to keep the rhythm going.

Neymar has been the heart of the Brazilian attack, despite not scoring any spectacular goals himself just yet. With opposing teams focusing on his talents, that opens the door for Richarlison de Andrade or Vinicius Junior to shine on the stage. Given the expected game script against a tight Croatian team, Neymar should step up and make a difference himself. As a leader, the Brazilian should look at shining against Croatia, in a match where the smallest of details could be essential.

Neymar is 30 and recently hinted at international retirement before the 2026 World Cup, so he’s hungrier and more motivated than ever to make this his World Cup.