Brazilian national media react after Lucas Paqueta’s performance against South Korea yesterday

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West Ham United star Lucas Paqueta started for Brazil against South Korea at the World Cup last night, and he was brilliant.

The now-25-year-old joined the Irons from Lyon for a club-record £51 million last summer (Sky Sports). He hasn’t quite set the stage on fire for West Ham yet, but his talent is evident for everyone to see. He showed that again last night.

Brazilian national media hail West Ham star Lucas Paqueta

Paqueta started his third game at the 2022 World Cup last night.

He played in the middle of the park alongside Manchester United star Casemiro, and we must say, he had a really, really good game.

The West Ham man was heavily involved in Brazil’s attack. He even got himself a goal in the end – a really impressive finish – and followed that up with a nice little dance as well.

Brazilian media outlet Globo Esporte were blown away by Paqueta’s display yesterday. They handed him an 8/10 rating and branded him as ‘one of the best’ players on the pitch last night.

The outlet wrote: “One of the best in the field. Without the ball, he deployed to the mark. When Brazil resumed, it was important to give quick passes and pull counterattacks.

“The fourth goal was a spectacle: he started the move in the defensive midfielder, took off, invaded the area and shot at first, with no chance of defence.”

A look at his stats

Paqueta played the full 90 minutes yesterday and he was brilliant.

The 25-year-old had 68 touches of the ball and completed 52 out of his 58 attempted passes, maintaining a really impressive 90 per cent passing accuracy. He had two shots at goal and created three chances, which is a very good return. (SofaScore)

The only thing Paqueta will not be happy about is the fact that he missed one big chance. That is a shame, but his performance was still excellent and he should be really pleased.

Brazil take on Croatia next and Paqueta will likely keep his place in the side. West Ham and Brazil fans will be hoping he can continue his good form.