BRAZIL’S World Cup fate hinges on uncovering the right chemistry within its billion-dollar attack and “praying” that Neymar finds his mojo.

Barcelona’s Philippe Coutinho — Brazil’s best player in Russia — has carried the attack with coach Tite considering several selection scenarios around him and the untouchable Neymar for the Round of 16 clash with Javier Hernandez-led Mexico at midnight (EST) on Tuesday morning.

The winner meets Belgium or Japan, who play at 4am (EST) on Tuesday morning.

Goal-less Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus, 21, is under pressure to keep his starting spot, with Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino firming as a potential inclusion — his quality and chemistry with ex-Liverpool teammate Coutinho evident in 33 brief impact minutes.

Coutinho has returned to a central role for the first time since a year ago in Brazil’s tour of Melbourne, when he was deployed there for the first time with great success, shining against Argentina and tearing the Socceroos apart.

Chelsea’s Willian is the other who could make way, while Tite has also considered sacrificing an attacker for defensive midfielder Fernandinho as he tries to strike a balance.

Jesus has been Brazil’s no. 1 striker since scoring two on debut against Ecuador 22 months ago, with Neymar the elephant in the room.

Neymar’s World Cup headlines have centred on his spaghetti-top hairstyle, theatrical dives and his tears after the Costa Rica win when his 97th minute goal added icing on a 2-0 cake.

Tite, whose man-management of Neymar will be crucial to Selecao’s success or otherwise — not dissimilar to Jorge Sampaoli with Lionel Messi, backed his megastar’s emotive display and admitted he was considering his selection options.

“He has a lot of responsibility and pressure. He had the courage to show his joy. I respect individual characteristics,” Tite said.

“It’s a team that’s growing strong in the competition mentally, taking the pressure with a good performance on the pitch.”

“In football you have to have balance. I was not able to sleep sometimes, thinking about this type of chemistry and balance.”

BRAZIL V MEXICO
Tonight, midnight EST

TAB ODDS:
After 90 mins: Selecao $1.50, Draw $3.80, El Tricolor $7.50

Result: Selecao $1.22, El Tricolor $4.20

TOP SCORERS:
Philippe Coutinho (Brazil) 2

Javier Hernandez, Hirving Lozano, Carlos Vela (Mexico) 1

KEY MATCH-UP:
Neymar (Brazil) v Edson Alvarez (Mexico)

Mexico’s youngest player will have his hands full trying to stop Neymar, who is itching to hit form after a slow start.