Jack Grealish Amazed by Lionel Messi but Picks Brazil As World Cup Favourite

• Jack Grealish has hailed Argentina's Lionel Messi as an unbelievable player
• However, the England attacker has picked Brazil as his World Cup favourite
• The Three Lions are top of Group B ahead of their final group clash with Wales

England forward Jack Grealish has applauded Lionel Messi, after he inspired Argentina to a 2-0 win over Mexico with a goal and an assist in the second half of the match.

Grealish, who has been likened to the Argentine, said Messi 'showed what he is all about' in the game and labelled him as an unbelievable player.

After a quiet first half against Mexico, Messi opened the scoring with a well taken shot from outside the box, that beat experienced Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.

Messi later set up youngster Enzo Fernandez, who sealed the win with a remarkable goal to re-spark La Albiceleste's hope of making the knockout stages after a disappointing opening day.

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Grealish picks Brazil as favourites

English star Grealish has identified Brazil as favourites at the Mundial, despite his heavy praise for Lionel Messi.

The Samba Boys came into the competition as strong contenders due to their attacking talent, something Grealish agrees, as reported by the Mirror.

"[Brazil] have so much talent, especially in those attacking areas. If you're asking me who the biggest threat is, I'd probably say Brazil."

La Albiceleste defeated the Selecao in the Copa America final last year to win Messi's first international title, and will be hoping to win the World Cup. However, they must first overcome Poland in their final group game.

Can Brazil progress without Neymar?

Sports Brief earlier reported on Neymar missing the final group games, after suffering an ankle injury in the opening game against Serbia.

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Brazil have some of the hottest attackers playing in Europe, but Neymar remains their star man due to his ability to make things happen, coupled with his skills, goal scoring ability and experience.

The Real Madrid duo of Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo de Goes have been tipped to step up in the absence of Neymar, who will hope to return to action for the knockout stages.