Neymar Jr added a new internationality with Brazil this morning. The Paris Saint-Germain winger appeared from the false nine in Tite’s scheme and was the one who opened the win against Chile (4-0) in the Maracana.
On the 10th he took responsibility for the penalty and added another goal to continue cutting Pelé in the race to be the top scorer in the history of the canarinha. With this victory, Brazil secured their place in Qatar with 42 points, seven behind Argentina, and still undefeated in the entire qualifying phase (13 wins, three draws). Vinicius, Coutinho and Richarlison increased the advantage until the final result.
The one from Mogi das Cruzes also attracted the spotlight for another fact that escapes the pure game. Ney took a free kick from Pablo Díaz and did not hesitate to turn against the Chilean. The Brazilian pushed him and the referee showed him a yellow card. Being the third, Neymar will have a one-match ban and will avoid having to play in La Paz, Bolivia, at an altitude of 3,625 m above sea level, this being one of the physically toughest games in the South American qualifying phase.
In Brazil the intentionality of the yellow is questioned. If Neymar forced it, he will miss out on an inconsequential commitment for the World Cup qualification and they also wonder if he hasn’t looked for a ‘mini-holiday’.
From UOL Esporte they launch the theory. “Why does Neymar not want to play in La Paz?” they ask. ANDThey understand that he does not have any important commitment with Paris Saint-Germain that could make him return to France, where he is also one of those who has been in the target of the fans since the elimination of the capital team at the hands of Real Madrid.
In addition, they emphasize, it would be good to have 90 more minutes of Neymar available to continue testing with the Brazilian in the false 9, but it will not be possible. “Neymar, who wants to finish his career in the MLS to have more vacations, preferred a break,” they sentence. The 10 always accompanied by talent and controversy.
The injuries have returned to condition to Neymar this season accumulating just 1700 minutes with PSG at this point in the campaign in which he has accumulated just five goals and five assists.