Brazil coach defends Neymar: One of the greatest in history،
Brazil coach Fernando Diniz said Neymar was “one of the greatest players in the history of world football” after recent criticism of the talismanic striker.
Neymar was hit by a bag of popcorn thrown from the stands by fans, an incident Diniz condemned, after the 1-1 home draw against Venezuela on Thursday.
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He was later criticized for his performance in the media and by fans.
“No coach in the world would give up on Neymar with the hunger and desire he has,” Diniz said.
“Again, [against Venezuela] he was decisive, he delivered a decisive pass. I have already said that Neymar is one of the greatest players in the history of Brazilian football and world football.
Neymar, 31, overtook Pele last month to become the men’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals in 125 international matches.
“One thing worth mentioning is Neymar’s numbers, he is first in almost every important aspect for a striker,” Diniz said. “First in goals, assists, goal participation, dribbling, first in scoring on the specialist site… the numbers explain why he is here.”
The Al Hilal striker, who has represented Brazil since 2010, was left upset by the popcorn incident.
“I don’t come here on vacation, much less to go for a walk, I came to do what I love the most, which is to play football and defend my country,” Neymar said.
“Obviously we do our best, give our best, and often the result doesn’t come, and it’s not what the fans expect.”
Against Venezuela, Neymar set up Gabriel Magalhães for Brazil’s goal, but made a record 18 misplaced passes and missed several chances.
Real Madrid striker Rodrygo recently came to his compatriot’s defense, highlighting his importance on and off the pitch.
“It doesn’t change anything if he [Neymar] whether he is 31 or not, he continues with the same quality as always,” Rodrygo said.
“He remains our main player. Of course, when we lose or draw, the responsibility will be greater on him, but when we win, it becomes clear that he is our best player and we depend on him a lot.
Brazil are second in their 10-team South American qualifying group with seven points from three games, two points behind World Cup holders Argentina.
