Neymar was left in tears when Brazil were expelled from the World Cup on penalties by Croatia in stunning fashion.
The South Americans were expected to reach the semi-finals in Qatar, but the Paris Saint-Germain hero’s record goal was canceled out by Bruno Petkovic before a devastating defeat on kicks.
AFP
Neymar was upset after seeing Brazil eliminated
Neymar was helped by Dani Alves after the shock loss
Twitter: ITV Soccer
Antony was sobbing after the South Americans were knocked out of the World Cup
The shootout got off to the worst possible start as Real Madrid starlet Rodrygo missed from 12 yards after a fine save from Dominik Livakovic, giving his teammates plenty to do if they were to progress.
The Europeans made all four of their shots before Marquinhos received a penalty which he had to score – but he hit the post.
Brazil have still not beaten a European team in the round of 16 of a World Cup since the 2002 World Cup final – a staggering 20-year curse.
The Croatian players went wild, chasing the sensational Livakovic, but in the center circle the Brazilians were broken and in tears.
Talisman Neymar was shocked, stunned and staring at the turf, while later he was photographed in tears and comforted by veteran Dani Alves.
Winger Rodrygo was bowled over and consoled by Real Madrid team-mate Luka Modric in a fine show of sportsmanship following a stunning clash in Qatar.
Croatia were delighted to progress on penalties
Brazilian fans consoled themselves in the stands
Paqueta also turned to Neymar in his time of need
Getty
Neymar made sure to help Rodrygo, as did Modric
Meanwhile, Manchester United summer signing Antony cried with his face buried in the turf.
As fans have suffered another shock from the World Cup, talkSPORT host Hugh Woozencroft believes it is Neymar who will be the scapegoat for Brazil’s exit.
He said: “Neymar is sitting in the center circle with tears streaming from his eyes.
“He actually equaled Pele’s record to be the all-time top scorer for the men of Brazil and that won’t mean anything to him.
“He will, I am sure, be the scapegoat who will be singled out for him. He is such an important figure in Brazilian football and this is what they will describe as another gigantic failure for Brazil.
Neymar could be scapegoated after defeat, says Hugh Woozencroft
“It’s been 20 years now and it will be at least 24 since they last won the World Cup.”
The Brazilians, however, had only themselves to blame, according to Dean Ashton, who couldn’t believe their dismal defense for Croatia’s late equaliser.
“They’ve turned Brazil off, totally turned off,” he moaned on talkSPORT.
“How can you be 4v4 against a team looking to score deep in added time? It’s not good enough! It takes a bad diversion, but do they care? Certainly not! They are the masters, Croatia, they are the masters of comebacks in major competitions!
“It was ridiculous from Brazil, so naive! It’s just not good enough at this level!
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