Neymar pens emotional message to Brazil critics after experiencing 'anguish' of being a fan during Costa Rica draw as he insists Vinicius Jr & Co still have his 'trust' at Copa America

Neymar was left frustrated as he watched one of the pre-tournament favourites Brazil playing out a disappointing goalless draw against Costa Rica in their Copa America 2024 opener on Tuesday. The Selecao star, however, lent his support to the Brazil side after the game as he penned an emotional message to the critics of the team.

Taking to Instagram, the Al-Hilal star posted a photograph of himself in the stands of SoFi Stadium in California and wrote in the caption: "When we're on the field, we obviously want to do our best. There are days we don't get anything right but there are days you get it right. Being a football player means being judged the whole time, with every pass, every kick, every choice... and the why of it all? Because ALL Brazilians wanted to be a player in the Brazilian national team, everyone dreamed, and everyone tried. And that's why those who are outside think they know more than what's inside and that's normal.

"From the outside you can have a vision you would never see inside the field, in seconds you have to fix a play. And today I experienced the supporting side, full of anguish, feeling that the goal would go out, chills but I will NEVER cross the line off the field. The game is over, we move on, let's train and improve for the next game. I trust this group a lot and I know they will do their best for themselves, their family and all the Brazilian fans!"

After a successful outing with Real Madrid in the 2023-24 season, Vinicius Jr. was expected to shine for the five-time world champions at the Copa America and become the leader of the pack in the absence of Neymar. However, the Los Blancos star delivered an underwhelming performance against Costa Rica and was replaced by future club colleague Endrick in the 71st minute.

Dorival Junior's side will aim to get back to winning ways when they next take on Paraguay in their second group game of Copa America 2024.