Neymar was left with a nasty-looking injury during Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Bolivia.
The Barcelona man was caught by a stray elbow from a Bolivian defender, leaving him with a blood streaming down his face.
He received medical attention on the pitch but was withdrawn for Chelsea’s Willian.
Neymar had to be subbed out after receiving an accidental elbow to the head. pic.twitter.com/xJS2U0CXvK
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 7, 2016
The incident occurred shortly after the hour mark, with Tite’s team already 4-0 up through goals from Neymar, Philippe Coutinho, Filipe Luis and Gabriel Jesus – the latter two also laid on by Neymar.
Roberto Firmino later added a fifth, helping cement victory for the Seleção which leaves them second in the South American World Cup qualifying standings, a point behind leaders Uruguay.
While the decision to withdraw Neymar was largely precautionary, he will sit out the upcoming qualifier with Venezuela through suspension.
And judging by some of the reaction to his performance last night, his presence could well be missed – even against the continent’s weakest team.
https://twitter.com/kevinmccauley/status/784205774704836608
Neymar's Intl records are ridiculous man
— Shihab (@Shihab06) October 7, 2016
https://twitter.com/BrotherMustafi/status/784233901757722628
Neymar’s early goal was his 48th at international level (not including efforts for the Under-23 side at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics) and the 300th of his professional career.
But it was an assist which won him the most plaudits – though the finish from Manchester City new boy Gabriel Jesus more than did justice to the defence-splitting pass.
https://twitter.com/Zizouology/status/784212237691002880
