Brazil

The teenager has made only a couple of senior appearances for the Serie A side this term, but new Brazil coach Mano Menezes included the attacking midfielder in a youthful-looking squad for the matches against Iran and Ukraine.

He could play off AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato with fellow Rossoneri Robinho supplying the bullets from on the left of a four-man midfield.

Liverpool’s Lucas Leiva and Chelsea’s Ramires are expected to make up the central axis of the formation with Menezes likely to keep faith with the same back four which helped him get off to a winning start against USA in August.

Brazil won that match 2-0 as Menezes attempts to mould a younger squad and rebuild after the disastrous World Cup quarter-final defeat to Holland.

Iran have named a largely domestic-based squad but have star quality in the form of Osasuna midfielder Javad Nekounam, who was part of their World Cup squad in 2006.

The hot and humid conditions in the Middle East state are likely to be oppressive with the temperature at kickoff expected to be over 32°C.

Several Brazilian players commented on the heat after their training session on Wednesday evening.

“It’s very hot here,” midfielder Giuliano told Globoesporte’s website. “It feels like I’m in a sauna.”

Brazil are 5/1 to repeat the 2-0 scoreline of their last win with a 3-0 win available at 13/2 and 4-0 available at 9/1.

Bet on the World Cup and get £200. Click here to visit Bet365 and claim your free money.