WORLD CUP HOSTS Brazil were rocked last night as star forward Neymar fractured a verterbra, ruling him out of the remainder of the tournament.
Goals from Thiago Silva and David Luiz earned a 2-1 win over Colombia and set up a semi-final date against Germany, but the celebrations were tempered as the country came to terms with Neymar’s injury.
Here’s what they are saying:
Luis Felipe Scolari, Brazil manager
I have been saying for three matches that Neymar has been hunted, but all the other countries say it is not true and it is only their players that are hunted.
Juan Camilo Zuniga, Colombian defender
I’ve never tried to harm another player. When I’m on the pitch I’m there to defend my country and my shirt — but there’s no intention to hurt anyone.
Thiago Silva, Brazil captain
Potentially this situation can mark a revolution for us, like ‘let’s win the Cup for Neymar’. This could help bring together the team even more.”
Dilma Roussef, Brazilian president
All of our support to Neymar.
Lance!
“Play for him”
Diego Maradona
It concerns not only the Brazilian people but all of us who love football. It was his World Cup, in his country. He had great hopes.
