Neymar backed to beat Messi and Ronaldo to next Ballon d’Or

The Barcelona superstar is currently away on international duty and extended his incredible scoring record to 51 goals in 76 games with a brilliant effort in a 4-1 win over Uruguay.

The forward latched on to a clearance by Brazil’s captain Miranda before lifting the ball up and over goalkeeper Martin Silva.

Former Tottenham midfielder Paulinho was the star of the show during the 2018 World Cup qualifying match as he scored a hat-trick, but Miranda was quick to praise Neymar after the match.

"Nowadays, Neymar is the player who lives in the best moment," the Inter defender said.

"The next Ballon d'Or is painted for him."

Neymar’s best finish in the Ballon d’Or was third in 2015, and if he was to win the next edition he would break the duopoly of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have shared the prize the past nine times.