The Brazilian superstar was distraught at the final whistle
Along with the usual factors that make every Brazil vs Argentina clash a must-see event, this year’s final also saw ex-Barcelona team mates Neymar and Lionel Messi face off for the biggest prize in South American football, as they both tried to claim a first major international title.
The poster boys of their respective nations and two of the greatest players in the world, both players always put everything on the line for their countries and wear their hearts on their sleeves.
This time, it was Messi who prevailed, as he finally managed to win a major international trophy with his country with Argentina defeating Brazil 1-0 at the Maracana.
You could see how much it meant to both players at the final whistle as well. Whilst Messi collapsed to the turf in joy before being swamped by his team, Neymar fell to the ground in devastation, and couldn’t hold back the tears.
NEYMAR 😔 crying after losing copa America final vs Argentina 🤧 pic.twitter.com/1Zl5xSl5GH
— CR7_ ARAVIND (@arnoldaravind8) July 11, 2021
It was Argentina’s first Copa America triumph since 1993, and whilst Brazil last won the tournament in 2019, Neymar wasn’t a part of the triumphant team after picking up an injury before the tournament. Whilst Messi picks up his first major international title at the age of 34, Neymar’s wait goes on.
🚨🚨 La cara amarga de la moneda
😭😭 Neymar, desconsolat, no es pot aguantar les llàgrimeshttps://t.co/b9GRkcID2C pic.twitter.com/yk1Iemuqqf
— Esport3 (@esport3) July 11, 2021
But despite his obvious and understandable devastation, the 29-year-old conducted himself with class. As the Argentinian celebrations continued, he went over to his former team mate and congratulated him. The two shared a touching moment as they hugged and exchanged words.
Messi took a moment to console Neymar during the celebrations 💙
(via @esport3) pic.twitter.com/ONwC3cCV27
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 11, 2021
And the duo were pictured later on in the evening, sat together on the steps of the Maracana in conversation.
The pair have always had an immense respect for each other, and it seems like if anything that respect has been strengthened after this Copa America final.
