Neymar left baffled as Vinicius Jnr is subbed off during Brazil’s dire 0-0 draw with Costa Rica in their opening Copa America match
- Brazil drew 0-0 against Costa Rica with Vinicius Jnr sent off after 73 minutes
- Neymar was left confused by the decision as he watched from the stands
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Neymar was left stunned after Vinicius Jr. was substituted during the opening match of the Copa America in Brazil
The Selecao will be keen to regain the Copa America after rivals Argentina won it in 2021 with Lionel Messi and co.
However, they started their campaign with a terrible 0-0 draw against Costa Rica on Monday, with the likes of Real Madrid duo Vinicius and Rodrygo failing to get on the scoresheet.
After failing to impress, Vinicius was replaced by Endrick in the 73rd minute, a decision that left Neymar confused as he watched from the stands of the SoFi Stadium.
Brazil head coach Dorival Jnr explained after the match: ‘We tried with him on the wing but it didn’t work.
Vinicius Jnr (left) was substituted after failing to make an impact in Brazil’s draw against Costa Rica
Neymar (left) was confused by the decision as he watched from the stands at the SoFi Stadium
Brazilian head coach Dorival Jnr explained that Vinicius was well marked and had to make a change
‘Then we put him inside and we couldn’t find a way through either… he was very well marked.
‘We had to find a solution, I tried to change something.
‘We have tried different alternatives, different situations have been created, but in the end we have not been able to achieve the finish.’
Neymar will obviously not take part in this year’s Copa America as he is currently recovering from a long-term injury.
The Al-Hilal striker tore his anterior cruciate ligament during Brazil’s 2-0 defeat by Uruguay last October.
However, he has traveled to the United States to show support for his teammates – and even wowed the fans before the match against Costa Rica.
