Neymar and the Brazil national team are still reeling from their shock World Cup exit. Heartbroken Brazil fans and OKBET punters witnessed a remarkable upset as the Vatreni snatched victory after a thrilling penalty shootout.
The result is another disappointing World Cup exit for the football-loving country that won five World Cups, the most out of any nation. Neymar, the team’s captain and all-time leading goalscorer, is still figuring out what happens to the national team after this competition.
“Honestly, I don’t know what’s going to happen. It’s hard to talk about it right now,” Neymar said to the press after the match. “It would be too hasty to come here and say that this is it, but I can’t guarantee anything. I have to take some time to think about it. I’m not closing any doors to the Seleção, but I’m also not saying 100% that I want to be back.”
It’s understandable to see why Neymar would say such things. Zlatko Dalic committed at least two defenders whenever Neymar dribbled toward the goal, effectively neutralizing his creativity on the attack. At least three Croatian shirts surround the PSG star whenever he had the ball inside the 18-yard box.
He eventually had his hero moment in extra time. He finally beat Dominik Livakovic after he ran off his line to drive in a powerful shot that almost broke the net. His goal celebration showcased how important it was for him and Brazil.
Unfortunately, the Brazilian defense couldn’t hold off Croatia’s persistent attack to bring the game to another penalty shootout. Livakovic once again showcased his class as he blocked Rodrygo’s strike and had a bit of help from the post to deny Marquinhos’ attempt.
Analysts Blast Neymar’s Ego
Some fans and pundits may criticize Neymar’s poor performance, save his important goal in extra time. However, some analysts blamed the forward’s choice to take the final penalty instead of going ahead.
Liam Brady called the 30-year-old an egotistical player who chose the glory of potentially scoring the game-winning penalty over securing their ticket to the semifinals. He also mentioned Modric’s order in the shootout and emphasized the difference between the two players’ personalities.
While Richard Sadlier agreed with Brady’s assessment, Neymar’s performance throughout the first 90 minutes was more worthy of criticism.
Only Neymar knows if these men were accurate in their judgments of him. All he can now focus on is himself and what he’ll do once the curtains close on this World Cup.
Read more: Which NBA Players Will Likely Be Traded?
Contact Us