Neymar was left baffled after Vinicius Jnr was substituted during Brazil’s opening Copa America match
The Selecao will be keen to reclaim the Copa America after rivals Argentina won it with Lionel Messi and co in 2021.
However, they got their campaign underway with a dire 0-0 draw with Costa Rica on Monday, with the likes of Real Madrid pair Vinicius and Rodrygo failing to get on the scoresheet.
Vinicius, after failing to make an impact, was replaced by Endrick in the 73rd minutes, a decision that left neymar confused as he watched from the stands at the SoFi Stadium.
Brazil head coach Dorival Jnr explained after the match: ‘We tried with him on the wing and we didn’t succeed.
Vinicius Jnr (left) was substituted after failing to make impact in Brazil’s draw with Costa Rica
Neymar (left) was confused at the decision as he watched from the stands at the SoFi Stadium
‘Then put him inside and we couldn’t find a way through either… he was very well marked.
‘We had to find a solution, I was trying to make a change.
‘We tried various alternatives, several situations were created, but in the end we were unsuccessful with our finishing.’
Neymar will of course not take part in this year’s Copa America as he is currently recovering from a long-term injury.
The Al-Hilal forward ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during Brazil’s 2-0 loss against Uruguay last October.
However, he has travelled to the United States to show support to his team-mates – and even left fans starstruck before the match against Costa Rica.
