2026 World Cup - Brazil: President Lula slams Neymar and the players

Brazil was knocked out by Norway (1-2) in the round of 16 of this 2026 World Cup. Just days later, Brazil's players came under fire from President Lula.

During a visit to the Maua Institute of Technology in São Paulo, the Brazilian head of state took aim at Neymar and his teammates. Lula criticized them for heading off on vacation immediately after the tournament ended.

"I sent a message to Ancelotti, the national team coach. The one who left with a huge squad and came back alone. There was almost no one on the return flight, it's a disgrace! Only one player returned, the others stayed behind. If we had won the Cup, everyone would be here dancing," said the Brazilian president.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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