Skip to content

Neymar criticised for 'cocky' style of play

By Paul Vinnell

Thursday 29 December 2016 20:09, UK

Brazil's Neymar (R) receives an elbow to the face by Bolivia's Yasmani Duk during the Russia 2018 World Cup football qualifier match in Natal, Brazil, on O
Image: Brazil's Neymar (right) receives an elbow to the face by Bolivia's Yasmani Duk

Barcelona superstar Neymar has been criticised for his "cocky" style of play by Bolivia defender Yasmani Duk.

Duk hit the headlines on Thursday after poleaxing the Brazil striker with an elbow which left Neymar with a bloody gash above his eye. 

Duk came in for some heavy criticism in some sections of the media after Brazil's 5-0 win, but he said there was nothing wrong with his challenge and insists Neymar needs to show more respect to his opponents.

Brazil's Neymar gestures on the ground after receiving an elbow to the face by Bolivia's Yasmani Duk during the Russia 2018 World Cup football qualifier ma
Image: Neymar is left in a bloodied heap

"Neymar was being a bit too cocky," Duk told Spanish paper AS. "He was like that with all of us throughout the game, but all I was trying to do was cut off a move, which is what happens all the time in football.

"Everyone knows the sport has its physical side - I had my nose broken and no-one says a word.

Also See:

"To become the best player in the world, he's got to stop this "Charlie Big B*******" behaviour and start showing some respect for his opponents."

Around Sky

Upgrade to Sky Sports to get 80% of all televised PL matches this season

Not got Sky? Get instant access to Sky Sports with no contract