Neymar moved by fans´ gesture

Neymar says the overwhelming reaction of rival supporters to his Brazil Serie A performance over the weekend nearly reduced him to tears.

The Brazil sensation scored a hat-trick as Santos beat Cruzeiro 4-0 at the Mineirao Stadium on Saturday.

While the home support jeered their own players for an abject display, they also gave the 20-year-old a standing ovation as he made his way off the pitch.

“I am overcome, it makes me want to cry,” Neymar told reporters.

“It is unusual for this to happen. In fact, I cannot remember this ever happening so I am very grateful.”

The goals take Neymar’s tally to 12 for the season despite a three-week absence as a result of his participation at the Olympics with the national side.

Santos are ninth in the Brazil Serie A with 46 points from 34 games.