Brazilian star Neymar has criticised the condition of the pitch at Santos’ Vila Belmiro stadium after suffering a right hamstring injury during the club’s Copa do Brasil quarter-final clash with Palmeiras.
Neymar was forced off in tears shortly before half-time during the goalless second-leg draw, as Santos were eliminated from the competition 3-0 on aggregate.
The 34-year-old later took to social media to express his frustration with the playing surface, describing it as the worst the stadium had seen and criticising the groundskeeping work carried out shortly before the match.
Neymar claimed the pitch was uneven and filled with holes, making it difficult for players to accelerate and stop safely.
The Brazilian also suggested that the poor condition of the surface contributed to several first-half injuries.
Santos are expected to assess Neymar’s injury further, with medical examinations needed to determine its severity and how long he could be sidelined.
