FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, Brazil vs Ecuador: Talisman Brazilian attacker Neymar faced an injury scare after he was spotted limping into the team hotel after two over-enthusiastic fans escaped security and ran right into the PSG striker, colliding with his legs and sending him staggering.
The scary incident – captured on video – sparked an injury concern for the 29-year-old as Brazil prepare for a pair of World Cup qualifiers clash against Ecuador tonight, followed by a Copa America tournament on home soil.
Un supporter brésilien a littéralement sauté sur #Neymar alors qu’il rejoignait l’hôtel. Petite alerte physique au regard des images 😟🇧🇷 #PSG pic.twitter.com/4lfWhsgaI0
— ParisTeam (@Paristeamfr) June 4, 2021
The Brazilian squad were departing their team bus and heading to their hotel when two young fans – clearly eager to meet their idol – got through security and ran towards Neymar. Unfortunately they slipped and crashed right into the striker, before security stepped in.
FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, Brazil vs Ecuador: What is Neymar’s status
A minor melee followed as one fan appeared unwilling to let go of Neymar and, when he was finally freed, the forward could be seen gingerly bending down to feel his ankle. He also lost his shoe in the incident.
The 29-year-old was eventually able to continue on into the team hotel but was hobbling and favouring his left leg as he walked.
Brazil coach Tite has yet to give any update on Neymar’s fitness with a World Cup qualifier against Ecuador to be played in the next 24 hours.
FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, Brazil vs Ecuador- There is a heightened concern around Neymar when it comes to injuries as the Brazilian has missed crucial games for his club, Paris Saint-Germain, and country with an unfortunate series of complaints.
Neymar missed Brazil’s entire 2019 Copa America campaign with an ankle ligament injury. A broken back, sustained during the 2014 World Cup quarter-final against Colombia, ruled him out of Brazil’s semi-final against Germany on home soil.
So understandably any knock to Neymar is taken very seriously – particularly when they come from his country’s own fans and while he’s just trying to walk to the team hotel.