Firmino continues to play second fiddle to Jesus

Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino will start on the bench once again when Brazil face Costa Rica in their second World Cup group game on Friday.

Manager Tite told reporters on Thursday that he would field an unchanged eleven for the important clash in St Petersburg.

Firmino contributed a goal and an assist in his side’s two warm-up games but was unable to displace Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus from the starting line-up for Brazil’s opener against Switzerland.

Jesus struggled to make an impact for the favourites as a compact Swiss defence blunted Brazil’s revered attack and was replaced by Firmino in the closing stages.

The Reds forward looked lively after his introduction, testing goalkeeper Yann Sommer and linking up positively with Neymar. Indeed, his energetic cameo prompted many to call for Tite to change tack.

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Firmino has done much more in 11 mins than Jesus in 79 mins. All I see in Jesus is a poacher while Firmino offers much more in trying to create chances. Really poor decision leaving him on the bench.

— Samue (@VintageSalah) June 17, 2018

Rate Jesus highly but it's criminal that Firmino isn't starting. In much better form and a more complete player currently.

— Henry Jackson (@HenryJackson87) June 17, 2018

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Firmino will remain an effective super-sub for the moment but, with Brazil expected to comfortably progress despite a disappointing result in their opener, he could yet play an important role at the business end of the competition.

Ex-Red Philippe Coutinho will continue to provide a crucial creative presence in midfield after netting a trademark stunner last time out, with Chelsea’s Willian keeping his place at right-wing.

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Source: anfieldhq.com