FIFA World Cup 2014: The time has come. This is our World Cup, says Scolari

SAO PAOLO: "Professor, will I be playing tomorrow? Can I sleep well tonight?” In full public view, Brazilian striker Neymar leaned over and asked his manager, Luiz Felipe Scolari. Scolari rubbed his chin, thought for a second and said, "Well, I’ll have to think about it.”
It was Brazil's final press conference before they kick off their World Cup campaign against Croatia here on Thursday and it was relaxed Brazil star and manager that fielded questions.Later, the squad had a light training session at the Corinthians Itaquera Arena to get a feel of the pitch.
"Time has arrived. This is going to be our World Cup," Scolari announced to the world, an assertion of their intentions as they go in search of their sixth world title at home here. Neymar simply echoed his manager's thoughts: "Like Mr Scolari said, our time has arrived."
"I really want this last day to go by very quickly," said Neymar, revealing the little boy in him excited at the prospect of something momentous. "I am anxious, but also relaxed and happy," said Neymar.
"I have received so many messages from my friends who are saying that I am fulfilling my dream and theirs as well," said Neymar, adding, "This is how much Brazil want to win the World Cup. I don't want to be the best player, I don't want to be the main striker. I just want to win the World Cup."
While he revealed that he drew inspiration from current legends, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar also said: "If you are a star and don't win (the World Cup), it doesn't make sense."
"My first memory of the World Cup is from 2002. I got myself a Ronaldo-type hairtcut and went to celebrate with my grandmother," said the 22-year-old. "This time, I will give my jersey to my mother, for she is a special person."
"I have learnt to sleep well now (before big games). Some years ago, before the Libertadores final (2012), Ganso and I just couldn't sleep with nervousness. I remember we slept at around 5 in the morning. Now, I am older and more relaxed now."
Asked if he was too young to be the Neymar of the World Cup, a confident Neymar said, "I am ready."
Asked how different was the 2002 experience from the current one, Scolari, who was the manager in Brazil's last triumph, said, "Collectively the idea is the same this time too. There have been a few adjustments tactically, and after the last 10, 15 days of preparing, it is time to put into practice.
Reminded that a Brazil No. 10 hadn't scored in the World Cup since Ronaldinho scored a freekick against England, Scolari said he was aware, and it was time to change things. "We are ready now," he reiterated.
The Brazil coach said he drew strength from being around this group of players. "Sometimes, I am a father, sometimes an uncle, a friend. Sometimes I have to be harsh, but I am thankful to be with this set of players," he said. "The World Cup is seven steps. We cannot jump all the steps. That would be foolish. Croatia is the first step. There are six steps after that."