However, Neymar’s two-assist performance was overshadowed by his reaction to criticism from supporters during the match. The Brazilian forward provided two assists as Santos recovered from an early deficit to beat Ecuadorian side Macara 2-1 in the first leg of their round-of-16 tie at Vila Belmiro on Friday.
Brazilian legend Neymar hit back at sections of Santos’ home support after being booed during their Copa Sudamericana comeback win over Macara, saying fans who cannot get behind the team during difficult moments should “stay home”.
Then we turn the game around, I come over to get some water, and he’s making a heart sign in the stands… It’s easy to be a Santos fan like that… Only liking the guy when he’s winning,” he added. The victory extended Neymar’s impressive run of form. A draw would be enough for the Brazilian side to progress to the quarter-finals.
“I told the guy up there: instead of criticising, there’s still 60 minutes left to play, support us… encourage us. He has now contributed 13 goals and eight assists in his last 24 appearances for Santos. Santos will now travel to Ambato for the second leg next week, holding a 2-1 advantage.
“What I was saying out there is that we were losing 1-0, and I know the fans have been suffering for many years… but if you’re going to keep thinking about that and come to the stadium with a negative mindset, it’s better to stay home,” Neymar told ESPN after the match.
