Head coach of the South African Men’s Olympic Team, Owen da Gama, has announced the starting eleven that will take on Brazil in the opening match of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games on Thursday.
Advertisement
Brazil captain Neymar admitted that his side’s 0-0 draw with South Africa in its opening Olympics clash on Thursday felt like a defeat. Some 22 minutes later the game ended in a draw and a quiet crowd left the stadium.
South Africa was dealt a blow when Mothobi Mvala picked up a second booking in quick succession, but despite its territorial dominance, Brazil could not muster the goal it needed to take control in Group A.
Palmeiras are now third in the Campeonato Brasiliero Serie A, one point behind leaders Corinthians with 21 games remaining.
Brazil and superstar Neymar were booed off as their quest for a maiden Olympic football gold medal began with a 0-0 draw against 10-man South Africa on Thursday.
Brazil vs South Africa soccer Olympics tv schedule is on NBCSN.
“This pressure certainly is a weapon that can be used”, he said through a translator. “We can’t be affected by that if it happens”. “Our next game, against them, will be very important for us”.
The whole of the nation thought they had opened their account in the 69th minute when Gabriel Jesus hit the post with his shot after a fine sequence of intricate build-up play from the Brazilians. The sturdy and skillful striker now plays for Santos, the same team where Neymar thrived before leaving for Barcelona.
Only victory will be enough for the demanding home fans, who still vividly recall the humiliating loss to Germany. As a matter of fact, Brazil didn’t utilized Neymar that much in Copa America to prepare for this bigger stage.
Neymar pointed out that no Brazil team has won an Olympic title, even with emerging stars including Romario, Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Roberto Carlos, Bebeto and Ronaldinho each taking part in at least one tournament. He failed with his few scoring chances and was visibly frustrated. Gabriel Jesus and Gabigol also weren’t able to capitalize on their opportunities.
Spokesmen for Pele said he had received the green light from his sponsors and doctor, but the 75-year-old was waiting to see if he felt well enough.
Advertisement
“May this be the moment for us to overcome hard times and to work as a team, to make our country and our world fairer and safer, full of hope and joy”, said Rio’s Archbishop Orani Joao Tempesta, flanked by Rio Mayor Eduardo Paes.
