Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku defended Brazil star Neymar from accusations of being an “actor” on the pitch and backed him to become the best player in the world ahead of their meeting on Friday. Brazil and Belgium will clash in Kazan for a place in the World Cup semi-finals and much of the attention will be on the world’s most expensive player.
Neymar has been routinely criticised during the tournament for his theatrical reactions to fouls and tackles. Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio labelled Neymar an “actor” after his reaction to having his ankle stepped on by Miguel Layun during their last-16 clash, but Lukaku is a big fan of the former Barcelona star. When asked whether he sees Neymar as “skilful or an actor”, Lukaku told reporters: ” Skilful. To me he’s not an actor.
🗣️ @RomeluLukaku9 : "@neymarjr is not an actor. He is one of the best players in the world. I will play against him for the second time and I am looking forward"#REDTOGETHER #WorldCup #BRABEL
— Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils) July 5, 2018