Neymar: I want to beat Messi in World Cup final

The former Santos star is full of ambition ahead of this summer's showpiece and feels Brazil are ready for each opponent.

Brazil star Neymar is dreaming of beating Barcelona team-mate Lionel Messi's Argentina in the World Cup final.

Luiz Felipe Scolari's men impressed at last year's Confederations Cup as they beat reigning world champions Spain 3-0 in the final and Neymar is hoping for a similar performance this summer.

"I shall try to play at the best of my abilities while Lionel will try to do the same. And after the match, we shall embrace each other. These two things will be there for sure, the rest is unknown," Neymar told Times of India.

"Actually, we had such conversations in the Camp Nou dressing room and I had always said that if we meet in the final, we shall be the winner. But he says the same too.

"It's really great to know such a talent from close quarters. I am really lucky."

Brazil will possibly meet Spain in the round of 16, but Neymar has stressed that the World Cup hosts will be ready for each opponent.

"These days, there is nothing unknown about your opponents. We know about them, they know about us. When you are trying to be the best, you cannot choose your opponent, can you? You have to play at the best of your abilities against each and every team. Only then you can be the best.

"They are the defending champions and they have won two European championships as well. Needless to say, they will be the best-prepared side to defend their crown. But we are ready to realise our dream too.

"We need to start it well, just like we did in the Confederations Cup. You need to be at your best rhythm from the first whistle."

Brazil meet Croatia, Mexico and Cameroon in the group stages.