SAO PAULO: The last 13 months have been good to David Luiz, who goes into the semifinal of the World Cup not just as captain of Brazil but as one of the most popular players with both team mates and fans.
Before last year’s Confederations Cup, Luiz was one of the top players in Europe but he was not well known among the general public in his homeland.
That changed as the central defender played in every game of the tournament the host nation won by beating world and European champions Spain in the final.
This year he has played in every minute of Brazil’s march to the semis, scoring two goals and turning in performances that have won him a place in FIFA’s constantly updated first 11.
His stock has risen to the point he will wear the captain’s armband against Germany in place of suspended Thiago Silva.
Luiz, 27, has also emerged as a leader off the field. After superstar Neymar he is the player the fans most want to see at training and his friendship and good humour have made him a favourite with teammates.
“David Luiz is a happy guy, he cheers us up and he encourages us and is demanding, too,” Neymar said before Luiz’ goal sealed a 2-1 victory over Colombia. (AP)
