Philippe Coutinho played his first minutes of football since the Premier League resumed but turned out for his national team, despite claiming injury at Liverpool.
The Brazilian remains subject to intense transfer speculation with the Spanish deadline slamming shut at midnight.
Barcelona continue their pursuit with Liverpool firm that he's not for sale. Though after citing a back injury which has kept him out of action for Liverpool, Coutinho was in fine form last night for Brazil.
(Watch Coutinho's beautiful goal for Brazil from last night:)
Coutinho and Co. beat Ecuador 2-0 in a World Cup qualifier, with the 25-year-old doubling their lead with a brilliantly well taken goal after delightful link-up play with Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus.
And following sealing the three points, Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar spoke about his international teammates situation via ESPN:
"I'm very happy because he has scored a goal, at this moment that he lives, a very great sadness, but he helped us in the victory."
Coutinho in action for Brazil after entering the field as a substitute. Image: PA
Coutinho is seeking a move away from Anfield as he sets his sights on a move to Barcelona. And according to Neymar, he's going through a tricky period of 'anguish.'
"Unfortunately, instead of being a happy time for him [Coutinho], for his family, it's a moment of anguish, disappointment and sadness. I like to see him happy because he is a teammate and a friend that I've had for a long time."
Coutinho celebrates scoring a goal for Brazil. Image: PA
"He was rewarded with a goal today, for his and our joy," he added.
Neymar and Jesus hug after the final whistle. Image: PA
Brazil coach Tite even admitted that the player was feeling the strain of the ongoing transfer saga. "Of course it affects him."
Will Barcelona table one last offer before tonight's deadline?
Meanwhile, Brazil have already booked their spot in Russia as they lead the South American group by 11 points from Colombia.
Topics: Liverpool, Coutinho, Barcelona, PSG, Neymar