Juan Carlos Osorio, without mentioning Neymar by name, had made clear he felt his antics and “fake fouls” had been responsible for Mexico losing their rhythm as, after a promising start, they were beaten 2 - 0 by Brazil.
Osorio, the Mexico coach, said: “I think it’s a shame for football. We wasted a lot of time because of one player. We stopped too often. I think this is a very negative example for the world of football and all the children who are following this game. This is a strong sport, a man’s sport and I think there shouldn’t be so much acting.”
The incident that most riled him came midway through the second half when Neymar tangled with Miguel Layún, who did tread on his ankle, although with nothing like the force Neymar made out.
Neymar, though, was dismissive of accusations of play-acting and feigning injury. “I think it’s more an attempt to undermine me than anything else. I don’t much care for criticism, not even for praise because this can influence in a way the athlete’s attitude. In the last two matches I didn’t talk to the press because there are too many people talking, getting excited. I don’t know if they’re showing off. I am here to win with my teammates.”
Meanwhile, Real Madrid have denied making an offer for Neymar , after Televisión Española, a state-owned public service broadcaster in Spain, claimed that a deal of € 310 million had been struck for the Brazil international.
Madrid, who have won the last three Champions League titles, denied the reports as “outright false”.
