In a Copa Sudamericana group stage match on Tuesday, Neymar Jr. netted the only goal for Santos, resulting in a 1-1 draw against Deportivo Recoleta. Following the match, Neymar found himself in a heated exchange with a fan as the team faced a chorus of boos while exiting the pitch.
The Brazilian forward opened the scoring at Vila Belmiro with his first goal since returning from injury. However, the Paraguayan team, making its debut in an international tournament, equalized, leaving Santos at the bottom of Group E.
Following the match, Neymar addressed the jeers from fans with a “shush” gesture before speaking with ESPN Brasil about the team’s inability to secure a win.
“We made mistakes; it happens,” Neymar stated. “I believe we created many chances and played well. I understand the fans are anxious and want us to push harder, but we’re doing our best and creating opportunities. It’s frustrating for them, but sometimes in football, the ball just doesn’t find the net.”
After completing his post-match interviews and heading toward the tunnel, Neymar again interacted with the crowd, specifically addressing one fan by playfully calling him “chubby.”
“You should have trained more; you’re getting chubby!” he joked, before adding, “Are you satisfied now? Am I spoiled? I’m giving everything out here. Enjoy your moment of fame.”
Neymar is aiming to participate in his fourth World Cup this summer, although injuries have kept him off the national team since October 2023. He underwent a minor knee surgery on December 22 and had a follow-up procedure earlier this month to ensure he would be fit for the World Cup in June.