Victor Hugo gifts Neymar with a jersey, but provokes: 'In the Arena, it will be fierce'; the star had already fired shots at Atlético-MG's fans.
A chapter of rivalry and camaraderie marked the confrontation between Santos and Atlético-MG at Vila Belmiro, in the Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals. After Peixe's 2-0 victory this Wednesday (9/9), midfielder Victor Hugo, from Galo, surprised by gifting Neymar his jersey, but not without leaving a message.
In a social media post, Victor Hugo wrote: "Respect, idol, but I'm vexed with you. In the Arena, next week, it will be fierce". The message refers to Neymar's provocation to Atlético-MG fans, further heating up the atmosphere for the return leg.
The statements ignite the flame of rivalry between the clubs, with the Santos star responding harshly to criticism from Atlético-MG's fans, promising an exciting confrontation in the next phase of the continental tournament.
Provocation and Responses in the Duel
The interaction between Victor Hugo and Neymar came to light after Santos' victory. While the Atlético-MG midfielder expressed respect and, at the same time, a warning about the next game, Neymar had already stirred the atmosphere with a forceful statement directed at Galo's fans. "Even with a blown knee, I'm better than your whole team," fired the Santos number 10, in response to the provocations received.
The phrase, loaded with confidence and a certain challenge, added an extra layer of tension to the confrontation that will have its decider next week. The historical rivalry between the clubs gains new flavor with these exchanges of barbs between the athletes.
Neymar's Situation and Important Absences
Despite all the controversy and excitement with Santos' victory, Neymar was not on the field in the first leg against Atlético-MG. The player is recovering from a knee injury suffered in a previous Copa do Brasil match against Palmeiras.
The expectation is that he will also not play in the return leg. In addition to recovering from the injury, one of the reasons for his probable absence would be concern about the artificial turf of Arena MRV, Galo's stadium, which could aggravate his physical condition.
Decider at Arena MRV and Next Steps in the Copa Sudamericana
The return leg, which will determine the qualifier for the Copa Sudamericana semifinals, is scheduled for next Wednesday, September 16. The venue will be Arena MRV, in Belo Horizonte, with Atlético-MG's fans certainly out in force, seeking a comeback.
Whoever advances from this electrifying confrontation will face the winner of the dispute between Cienciano, from Peru, and Montevideo City Torque, from Uruguay, in the next phase of the continental tournament, which is approaching its final stretch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result of the first leg between Santos and Atlético-MG in the Copa Sudamericana?
Santos defeated Atlético-MG 2-0 in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals, held at Vila Belmiro.
Why did Victor Hugo, from Atlético-MG, provoke Neymar?
Victor Hugo gifted Neymar his jersey, but responded to the Santos star's provocations to Galo's fans, warning that at Arena MRV "it will be fierce".
Did Neymar play in the first leg against Atlético-MG?
No, Neymar did not play in the first leg due to a knee injury and is also expected to be absent for the return leg, possibly rested due to Arena MRV's artificial turf.
When and where will the return leg between Atlético-MG and Santos be?
The return leg of the Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals will take place next Wednesday, September 16, at Arena MRV, Atlético-MG's stadium.