World Cup 2022: Brazil put down the biggest marker at Qatar tournament

The sight of the sober-suited elder statesman dancing with his players on the touchline typified this football carnival.

Tite cut an incongruous figure among his players but he simply could not resist joining a communal samba as Brazil put down the biggest marker at this World Cup with a dazzling victory against South Korea.

It was a moment that inspired Tite, 61, to let it all hang out, as Brazil produced the tournament's best football in a 4-1 win that had their status as World Cupfavourite stamped right through it.

After only 29 minutes of a first half that will live long in the memory, Richarlison made his second entry into the showreel, scoring Brazil's third goal of the game.

It was a sight to behold, as it passed around the area.

The Spurs forward juggled the ball on his head three times and then laid it off to Marquinhos.

He delivered to Thiago Silva and his first-time pass to Richarlison gave the move the finish it deserved.

If Richarlison's bicycle kick against Serbia was amazing, this may be even better.

It was similar to all of Brazil's first-half football. We are here. Are you able to stop us?

This and the return of the Brazilian.

Despite the loss of Gabriel Jesus and Alex Telles, Brazil is still in good shape for the last eight.

While he was the main attraction, he had to share top billing with his teammates Richarlison and Vinicius Junior because they were also injured.

Vinicius showed his class when putting Brazil ahead after only seven minutes, and then he got in the act from the spot, although his 'Riverdance' technique embellished the penalty unnecessarily. He is one goal behind the all time record of 77 goals for his country.

West ham United's Lucas Paqueta volleyed a sumptuous fourth from Vinicius' cross before half time, allowing Brazil from then on to preserve energy for Croatia.

• Fifa World Cup: Schedule and route to the final
• World Cup TV coverage guide

Brazil have been easing their way into this World Cup, even losing to Cameroon in the group stage, but the first 45 minutes was an outstanding side on full power, sending a message to their rivals.

This was more than just a performance, it was a celebration of Brazil. Their national symbol is football.

Weverton was sent on to get in on the action as Alisson was given 10 minutes off. All 26 players at the World Cup were used by Brazil.

Many observers questioned whether the pre-rehearsed dance moves following goals amounted to a show of disrespect for their opponents.

The view is that Brazil played with their freedom of expression in the best traditions of their country and that they were happy.

Brazil's players were so focused on their own happiness that they were willing to dance with anything.

The team-mates looked for the returning star. He was in the tank for 81 minutes before he was replaced.

Only two other Brazilians have scored from the spot in at least three World Cup.

In the 50's, 1960's, 70's, and 80's, they scored in four, three, and two, respectively.

Allison, one of the world's elite goalkeepers, showed why he is one of the best when he made a number of fine saves in the second half.

It's a big deal for Croatia and anyone else who might meet here. If you do manage to get through at the other end, you'll be in for a tough time because Brazil have the attacking ability to beat anyone.

The team looks like the complete package.

As they paraded a giant banner at the end of the game, they dedicated the performance to the ailing legend, who is in hospital.

Brazil's performance at the World Cup is the biggest statement by any country so far, and it would have received approval from the man known as the greatest player of all time.

Get the latest results and goal notifications for any team at the Fifa World Cup by downloading the BBC Sport app: Apple - Android - Amazon

You can get a daily dose of the World Cup on the radio.