He was supposed to be a Brazilian Jagaur out to conquer the world, but Neymar laid to the ground like he was a diva, alluring men (referee in this case) torwards himself.
A lot was expected of him as Brazil stepped into Russia. His country giving him the mythical status they once gave Pele, in hope that he will score the goal that will bring the sixth-trophy home. But all the soccer-frenzy nation got was some preposterous and ludicrous moments, Neymar acting untouchable and falling with every touch to the ground.
Not even a Miss World or Miss Universe would have such farcical moments of glory but Neymar seems to be diva, a diva with divine proclamations.
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He may have scored one and earned another assist but the PSG star’s most meaningful contribution still remains the meme-worthy and absurd fouls he has so dramatically earned.
One such appeared in the 31st minute against Serbia, when he theatrically rolled on the turf, completing five rotations like he was polishing the pitch, after being tackled on the sidelines by Adem Ljajić. The Serbian earned a yellow for something he might never understand why, but Neymar had created a new world record – a record on the number body rotations in seconds.
This was however not the end because the heights had been raised in the previous game against Costa Rica when Neymar earned a penalty, from a push that should tickled him.
It was in the 80th minute when with the game still at goalless, Neymar dribbled into the box just as Giancarlo Gonzalez seemed to place his hand on Neymar’s stomach, pushing him to the ground. But replays shows otherwise and it was confirmed Neymar had fallen backwards from a foul that he should have not even moved.
Infact Neymar has won 17 fouls in three matches, the most by any player. But how many of them were actually fouls?
And perhaps that is why despite the Brazilian creating 11 chances and hitting 16 shots on targets, he has just one goal and a assist to show.