Neymar can't hold back tears after career's biggest defeat (photos, video)
Neymar (photo: Getty Images)
Brazilian forward Neymar could not hold back his tears after his club Santos suffered a crushing 0-6 defeat against Vasco da Gama, reports BBC Sport.
Fateful match
In the 20th round of the Brazilian championship, Santos, which is in 15th place in the standings, hosted Vasco da Gama, a team sitting in the relegation zone. Neymar took to the field wearing the captain's armband.
Despite the crushing scoreline, the 33-year-old player made two key passes and received a yellow card.
This game became the first in history where Santos conceded six goals at their home stadium in a Brazilian Serie A match, and for Neymar, it was the most painful in his 16-year professional career.
Previously, the team's biggest loss had never exceeded a four-goal margin.
Emotional reaction
Right after the final whistle, a devastated Neymar could not hide his emotions and burst into tears on the field. Commenting on the match, he expressed his deep disappointment.
"I'm ashamed, I'm totally disappointed with our performance. The fans have every right to protest, obviously without using violence. But if they want to curse and insult, they're in their right. To sum up our attitude on the field, it was terrible," said Neymar.
"I've never experienced this in my life. The tears were from anger, from everything. Unfortunately, I can't help in every way," the Brazilian added.
"I think everyone today needs to go home and think about what they want to do," the footballer concluded.
Consequences of defeat
Following the crushing defeat, Santos made a radical decision by dismissing head coach Kleber Xavier, who had only taken charge of the team in April. Under his leadership, the club won just five out of 15 matches.
Santos remains just two positions above the relegation zone. The team's next match will take place on August 24 against Bahia. Neymar will not be able to play in this game due to suspension.
Earlier, we wrote about the family of the star footballer, as he became a father for the fourth time.
