Brazil vs. Honduras: Stars Who Must Dominate for Brazil to Reach Semifinals

Brazil's favorite status was made even more clear cut when Spain was shocking eliminated from the tournament in the group stage. Now the South American powerhouse stands just three victories away from an Olympic gold medal.

In the quarterfinals the Brazilians will battle Honduras, a team that has pulled off the biggest upset so far with a 1-0 win over Spain. The Bicolor Olimpica have been playing extremely well in the defensive third and it makes them a tricky opponent.

Let's take a look at three Brazil stars who must elevate their level of play if the team is going to reach the semifinals, where a potential clash with host nation Great Britain could await.

Oscar

After recently completing a high-profile move to Chelsea ahead of the next Premier League season, Oscar has spent the Olympic tournament attempting to prove he's ready to take that big step. So far, he's done a pretty good job.

His biggest highlight came when he scored a goal in the team's second game against Belarus to secure the victory in stoppage time. But his biggest contributions have come through his versatility in the midfield, which has made Brazil's offense nearly unstoppable.

It will be important for him to use his outside pace to stretch the Honduras defense, which has really hunkered down in recent matches. If he can provide space for his teammates, Brazil will break down the defensive wall.

Neymar

No player in the tournament is more explosive or talented than Neymar. He's well on his way to becoming one of the game's best players and the Olympic experience will go a long way in helping him reach that top-tier status.

He scored two goals in the group stage, but could have netted several more. Even though it's a rare occasion when he isn't the more dangerous player on the pitch, the pressure will be on him more than ever now that Brazil is expected to win gold.

The most important key for Neymar in the quarters will be making sure he doesn't try to play one-man football too much. The Honduras defenders are expecting that and have been preparing to stop it. Neymar must use his teammates effectively to produce chances.

Hulk

This is the type of game where Hulk's strength would be a huge advantage for Brazil. Honduras is going to play a physical style with hopes of getting the talented Brazil attack of its game and Hulk is the perfect counter.

He's one of the team's three overage players at 26 and it's matches like this why he was added to the roster. Although he hasn't been able to score yet, manager Mano Menezes should stick with him for the quarterfinals.

Between Oscar's pace, Neymar's terrific form and Hulk's power, Brazil should be able to do what Spain couldn't by producing goals. And since Honduras doesn't have much offensive firepower of its own, that would be enough to reach the semifinals.