The incident has caused much controversy after Neymar was forced to make an error during Santos’ 3–0 loss at Coritiba, which made for an interesting moment in what was a fairly routine match. The 34 year-old forward was being treated for a minor calf ailment on the sidelines.
That very moment saw a substitution mistake as Neymar was thumbed up for a changing room substitution and teammate Gonzalo Escobar was substituted in by the wrong player. According to reports, the fourth official displayed the wrong number on the substitution board, which led to confusion on the pitch.
Santos authorities later confirmed that it was to be the replacement of Escobar with Robinho Jr. But, because of the mistake, Neymar was out. This sudden change was an upset to the team and the frustration that was already there.
Neymar’s moment was right at the right time. He is still striving to prove his fitness and also make a spot in the World Cup team of Brazil. Any disruption now can impact rhythm and sighting forward of the last selection.
This is a good reminder to me that the little things can have a big impact in professional football. This is during a period when Neymar is facing intense pressure, and adds to the burden on both the player and the team. Santos faced a tough day and the mix-ups in substitutions did not help. There was no opportunity ever to bounce back after the interruption.
Neymar’s fitness and performance will be carefully monitored by Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti before making his final selection. This one wasn’t injury related, but it doesn’t help clear up the confusion surrounding his preparation phase. In sum, a straightforward substitution turned into a talking point which could stay in the minds for longer than anticipated.
