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Journalism of Courage
Neymar left the field in tears after sustaining a knee injury during Brazil’s 2-0 loss to Uruguay in a World Cup qualifying match, leaving his participation against Mumbai City FC in the AFC Champions League in doubt.
Neymar, who plays for Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal, was set to play in India for the group-stage ACL tie on November 6. Mumbai City FC had even booked a much-larger DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai to cater to the fan frenzy surrounding the match.
Neymar’s injury occurred towards the end of the first half when he tripped while running. Instantly, players from both teams gathered around him as he clutched his left knee in pain.
Neymar was immediately attended to by the medical team at the Centenario Stadium and was subsequently carried off the field on a stretcher. As he was being taken away, he clasped his hands to his face, clearly overwhelmed by the pain and disappointment.
The severity of Neymar’s injury remained uncertain during halftime. Brazil’s medical team provided no immediate update after the game but assured that tests had already been conducted, with further examinations scheduled for the following day. Team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar emphasised the importance of the next 24 hours in monitoring the knee’s response and the extent of swelling. The definitive diagnosis would depend on imaging tests that were yet to be completed. The doctor cautioned against premature assumptions, particularly concerning ligament damage, and promised to update the public as soon as more information became available.
Neymar, understandably distraught by the injury, did not speak to reporters in Montevideo. However, he took to Instagram to share a message of faith and gratitude. “God knows about all things,” he wrote, adding, “no matter what, I have faith”.
Prior to the World Cup qualifier, Neymar faced criticism from fans due to his lacklustre performance in Brazil’s previous match against Venezuela, which ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw.
Brazil’s captain, Casemiro, expressed his concern for Neymar’s well-being, stating, “Let’s hope it’s nothing serious. He’s an important player for us, and we are very fond of him. It’s disheartening to see him suffer so frequently from injuries just as he starts to gain momentum.”
The incident cast a shadow of uncertainty over Neymar’s immediate future. As one of Brazil’s most prominent players, his absence would undoubtedly be felt not just by the national team. His club Al Hilal and the Saudi Pro League will also be sweating considering he’s the most high-profile player signed by the league.
