They asked for it once, twice and even three times. Every time the image of Neymar appeared on the video scoreboards, the noise increased a few decibels. And the beak touched when he jumped to warm up. His name had been monopolizing the debate in Brazil for weeks. There were doubts about his call-up, criticism for traveling injuredvoices that defended that he should never have occupied a place on Ancelotti’s list and others that remained convinced that, even for a few minutes, The World Cup needed number 10 on the pitch. The response came from the stands with the best possible gift.
With Brazil With the match completely under control, the Italian coach decided that the time had come. In it minute 75, Neymar got up from the bench and the stadium collapsed. What was being celebrated was the return of the footballer who for many years has set the pace for the Brazilian team and who is facing his last dance.
The forward He entered looking at the sky, raised his arms and received the biggest ovation of the tournament so far. Because, despite the criticism, the injuries and the passage of time, Neymar continues to occupy a special place in the heart of the Canarinha. And now, with Brazil already qualified for the round of 32, he will still have one more opportunity to write a final chapter in his history with the national team.