New Delhi: In the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2022, Brazil were kicked out in a dramatic manner against Croatia in the quarterfinal fixture in Qatar. Luka Modric’s team advanced to the semifinals after outplaying Brazil in extra time and then penalties. Five-time FIFA World Cup winners Brazil’s fans were shocked but their star player Neymar, who is also the country’s joint all-time top scorer explained how his team stood strong.
“I decided to show (without their permission) these messages to show how much we wanted to win and how united we were. These were some of the many messages I exchanged with the group," wrote Neymar on social media.
Neymar posted screenshots of his chats with teammates such as Marquinhos, Rodrygo, and skipper Thiago Silva.
“One penalty won’t change what I think of you", wrote Neymar to his Brazil and PSG teammate Marquinhos.
The 28-year-old defender then replied and said, “I really wanted it all to have worked out. It’s dreadful to think that penalty was an obstacle in our dream. But let’s go, we need to be strong, give time some time, and see what football has in store for us."
“Only we know what we went through to be here, what we went through those days over there, that’s why it really hurts, the weight is big, but God knows what he does. If he gave me this it’s because I can endure it and carry on," continued Marquinhos.
Neymar wrote a message to Rodrygo, “Brother, I’m here to tell you that you’re amazing. The only people who miss penalties are the ones who take them. I already missed a lot in my career and I learned with all of them. But I never gave up, always tried to be better and improve in every way."
The 21-year-old then responded “Thanks, my idol. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Sorry for anything and for delaying your dream as well. I hope you can continue with us, so we can win together."
Neymar also texted skipper Silva that said, “We’re gonna have to keep going bro, sadly that’s how it is! I wanted a lot to give you this cup. You, me, and Dani Alves deserved a lot. But God has our purpose and he knows everything."
In reply to that he said, “Brother, It’s harder than what I thought originally. I’m not holding up. I can’t believe we lost! Every hour that I remind myself makes me want to cry a lot. But I will be OK."
Tournament favorites Brazil lost to a spirited Croatia in the penalty shootout in the first quarterfinal of the FIFA World Cup 2022. Both teams had scored one each after the match went into extra time. The first goal of the match, scored by Neymar, came at 106th minute. Croatia's Bruno Petkovic soon scored an equalizer in the final moments to deny Brazil a win and took the match to penalties.
With 77 international goals, Neymar now equals legendary Pele's record of most goals scored by a footballer in Brazil men's national team.