Star Neymar burst into tears when he had to leave the field in the first half because of a serious knee injury. The Brazilian team lost heavily to Uruguay with a score of 0-2 in the 2026 World Cup qualifying round for South America on October 18.
Neymar and the Brazilian team were heavily criticized after the Venezuela team’s 1-1 draw on October 13. This pressure has not let them go yet, as they continued to play sporadically in the match against the Uruguay team at Estadio Centenario away field in Montevideo on October 18.
Neymar burst into tears when he suffered a serious injury
AFP
Many worry that Neymar will take a long break from playing
The Uruguay team under the guidance of experienced coach Marcelo Bielsa has shown a very hopeful revival. They were not shy and soon put strong pressure on the Brazilian team, which was considered stronger, and opened the score 1-0 in the 42nd minute thanks to striker Darwin Nunez.
After the opening goal, the Uruguay team felt even more comfortable when Brazil star Neymar had to leave the field early due to a serious injury. From a strong collision with midfielder Nicolas de la Cruz, Neymar fell down holding his left knee and rolling on the field, making Brazilian fans extremely worried.
The worst finally came, Neymar could not continue playing and left the field in tears. Interim coach Fernando Diniz had to replace striker Richarlison.
Without Neymar, the Brazilian team’s performance is even weaker. In the second half, the “yellow-green” team’s defense once again had a loophole, allowing Nicolas de la Cruz to score to increase the score to 2-0 in the 77th minute, sealing victory for the Uruguay team. Darwin Nunez continued to make his mark on the Uruguay team’s second goal when he contributed an assist.
Striker Richarlison replaced Neymar but played very lacklusterly
The loss caused the Brazilian team to fall to 3rd place on the 2026 World Cup qualifying rankings in South America, with 7 points after 4 matches. The Uruguay team rose to second place with the same 7 points but better difference. However, Neymar’s injury is the biggest shock for the Brazilian team, as the 2024 Copa America is near.
