Neymar scored the fastest goal in the history of Olympic football on Wednesday, as Brazil thrashed Honduras 6-0 at the Maracana to book their place in the 2016 Rio Olympics final.The Barcelona forward capitalised on an error to bundle home after just 14 seconds, while Gabriel Jesus bagged a brace before the interval to make the game absolutely safe. Marquinhos added a fourth in the second period,Luan finished off a sharp team move for five and in stoppage time, Neymar made it six from the penalty spot.Brazil will face either Nigeria or Germany in Saturday's final, with the second semi-final to be played later on Wednesday.At a packed stadium, it was imperative the Selecao got off to a fast start, although even the most optimistic of Brazilians couldnt have anticipated being ahead quite so early.Neymar was sharp to react to a slack pass from Johnny Palacios, and after challenging for the ball with goalkeeper Luis Lopez, it ricocheted off the forward and over the line, sparking wild celebrations at the Maracana.Per ESPN Stats & Info, it was a landmark goal in Olympic history:The joy was quickly subdued, though, as Neymar crumpled to the floor injured. He was eventually stretchered off, clutching his side and in clear discomfort. However, the Maracana took a collective sigh of relief, as their talisman eventually ambled back onto the field.Perhaps sensing some frailties, Honduras did take aim at Neymar upon his return, flying into tackles and leaving their foot in at times. The 24-year-old was evidently frustrated, although he continued to pose a real threat with the ball at his feet.It was no surprise when the captain was involved with the second goal, too, feeding Luan who threaded a pass through to Jesus in the 26th minute. The new Manchester City recruit then calmly poked his effort past the onrushing goalkeeper. South American football journalist Rupert Fryer was not impressed with Honduras approach at this point:Things would only get worse for Honduras before the interval as Brazil started to turn on the style. Once again it was Neymar and Jesus linking up to great effect, as a pinpoint pass from the former released the latter, who finished high above Lopez to make it 3-0 at half-time.From the restart, it was clear there was no intention from Brazil to sit back, as they quickly added to their lead. It was more poor defending from Honduras, too, as Marquinhos capitalised on a loose ball in the box after a corner, thrashing home from close range.Following the fourth, there was a lull in the game, as Brazil made changes and thoughts turned to Saturday's final. Yet even with Jesus replaced to a rousing reception, theSelecao still had another moment of magic for the assembled supporters, as Luan swept home Felipe Anderson's cross after a slick passing move.Sports Illustrated's Grant Wahl hailed the showing of the Gremio forward, who has made a big impact since being introduced into the team:Honduras did try hard for a consolation goal in the latter stages, although Brazil fought to ensure their record of no goals conceded at the Olympics remained intact. They even had time to add to their goal haul, as a rash challenge from Palacios in the penalty area gave Neymar the chance to net his second with virtually the last kick of the game.After a turbulent start to the tournament, Brazil have finally found their groove. The attacking play on display here would be enough to cause any team in the tournament problems, while the supporters, having booed the side earlier in the Games, are back behind their men.Whether they meet Germany or Nigeria in the gold-medal match, the task will be difficult. Honduras, after conceding such a comical early goal, became reckless very quickly in this one, allowing Brazil time to work their magic. Nevertheless, for a team that thrives on momentum, it was the perfect boost ahead of a high-pressure finale. Reaction to follow.
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