Neymar's remarkable international achievements reached new heights as Brazil's superstar played a starring role in the World Cup hosts' 3-1 win over Croatia in the opening game of the tournament.

The 22-year-old Barcelona forward scored twice – he now has 33 goals for his country in only 50 caps – with Oscar getting the third after Croatia had taken an early lead through Marcelo's own goal.

Neymar admitted he had had a dream start to the World Cup,saying: "I think I am happier than I ever dreamt, to start with a victory in the World Cup such as this.

"The whole team deserves praise for being able to keep calm and turn things around."

Neymar may have stolen the show, but coach Luiz Felipe Scolari hailed the impact of Chelsea midfielder Oscar. There have been doubts expressed in the Brazilian media about 22-year-old Oscar's form, but Scolari insisted he had never lost faith.

"Neymar got man of the match, but if there was a second award it should go to Oscar," stated Scolari. "Our statistics after the game shows he was the one who made the most tackles, and made lots of dribbles and crosses – he was our most creative player on the right.

"He was fantastic and that's the kind of player he is and I have always believed in him. Any doubts came from your side [the media]. His level may have dropped but I never lost belief in him."