Santos' Neymar unconcerned by 'Messi' taunts during Socrates tribute match - 7M sport

Santos' Neymar unconcerned by 'Messi' taunts during Socrates tribute match



I have a say

Posted Friday, December 30, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

Santos forward Neymar admitted that it was an honor to play alongside Brazil legend Zico in a game organized by the 58-year-old and insisted that he was untroubled by chants of 'Messi' from the stands when he touched the ball.

The 19-year-old participated in Zico's annual 'Game of the Stars' charity match on Wednesday evening, this year dedicated to the legend's former Selecao teammate Socrates who passed away in December.

The 'Friends of Zico', featuring Rai, Neymar, Ronaldo, Zetti and the organizer himself amongst others, defeated the 'Stars of Brazil' 7-5 in the match, held in Sao Paulo's Estadio Morumbi.

Neymar was taunted by fans when receiving the ball and reminded of his defeat to the Argentine and his Barcelona outfit in the Club World Cup final. He scored in the game to silence the spectators, however, and afterwards declared he was indifferent to the chants.

"The goal was for the fans who came to pay their respects. [The Messi chants] did not bother me, no," the youngster told reporters at the final whistle.

He added,"It is sad to find out that some people are not on our side, because here we are the Brazilian team. But it is natural, it is a nice rivalry in Brazilian football."

Earlier, Neymar had spoken about sharing the field with Zico, a moment he praised as something extraordinary.

"It is special to play alongside Zico, it will be the first time and I hope that I can score from one of his passes," Neymar stated.



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