Neymar’s behavour during Brazil’s 2-0 victory over Costa Rica has been criticised by many, including his teammate Thiago Silva. The defender, who wore the Brazil armband on Friday, has spoken of how the forward hit out at him when he kicked a ball back to Costa Rica in an act of fair play.
“He is like a little brother to me and I try to look out for him, but today I feel sad because he insulted me when I returned a ball to Costa Rica. He had a point as they had given him a lot, but this one ball wasn’t going to earn us the victory. I was saddened by his attitude and I told him that afterwards.”
Speaking on the forward’s post-match tears, Silva said that he could understand the outpouring of emotion. “It’s normal that Neymar needs to let off steam. He carried a heavy weight. He’ll now be a lot more relaxed for the third game,” Thiago said.