Neymar's Poker Face: Critics Ignored, Star Delivers on Field

Neymar faced backlash after footage emerged of him playing in a poker tournament while his team, Santos, participated in a Copa Sudamericana match. However, the decision was made by head coach Cuca to keep Neymar in Brazil for a controlled physical regimen, given his recent injury struggles.

Neymar trained with Santos earlier on the day of the match and then attended the poker tournament. He was also given the following day off, along with players returning from the away game. He later posted on social media, stating, "Life is a joke," before directly addressing critics.

In a video, Neymar explained his schedule, emphasizing that he had trained that morning and was on a scheduled day off. He questioned whether his critics would also disapprove of his training sessions, concluding with a firm "Mind your own business."

Coach Cuca supported his decision, questioning the benefit of Neymar traveling to Venezuela when the team had a busy fixture list ahead. Cuca confirmed Neymar remained in Brazil to continue his physical conditioning, which was deemed more beneficial than the demanding travel.