Friday, March 29, 2024

Rio 2016: South Africa draw felt like a defeat for Neymar

SoccerNews in General Soccer News 5 Aug 2016

71 Views

Brazil captain Neymar admitted that his side’s 0-0 draw with South Africa in their opening Olympics clash on Thursday felt like a defeat.

The host nation dominated for large spells in Brasilia, but were unable to find a way past Itumeleng Khune in the South Africa goal, even after they were reduced to 10 men when Mothobi Mvala was sent off following a second booking.

Neymar insists Brazil never expected their challenge for the gold medal to be straightforward, but conceded that the result will be a difficult one to forget.

“We knew it wouldn’t be a case of coming here and bringing home the gold,” he said after the match.

“For us, the draw is a defeat. The team played to win, but we know our responsibility. We’ll face more difficulties yet.

“We need to know how to overcome things but we’ll stay calm and make things right as soon as possible so we can have a good game on Sunday [against Iraq].

“The first match is always the hardest because of the anxiety that marks the start of a competition, and I think that anxiety hurt us a little in the end.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SoccerNews

Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.

You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.

SHARE OR COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE

WE RECOMMEND

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This field is required *

Join the conversation!

or Register

Live Scores

advertisement

Betting Guide Advertisement

advertisement

Become a Writer
More More
Top