PSG 1 - 3 Manchester United: Neymar vents frustration after United's historic win
What's the story?
Manchester United made history last night as they defeated Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 at the Parc des Princes to knock the hosts out 3-3 on aggregate courtesy of the away goals rule. The Red Devils sealed the tie late into injury time as they converted a penalty in the 94th minute.
In case you didn't know...
The penalty was awarded with the assistance of VAR after Diogo Dalot's shot struck Presnel Kimpembe on the arm. Marcus Rashford's spot kick secured United a berth in the quarter-finals of UEFA Champions League as United knocked the Parisians out.
The heart of the matter
Neymar Jr, who was sidelined for both legs due to his ankle injury made his frustration known on social media. Following the penalty drama, Neymar could not hold back and blasted the referee's decision to award United a late penalty over an Instagram post.
"That is a disgrace!" Neymar wrote on his Instagram story alongside a screenshot of the alleged handball.
"And UEFA still pick four guys who know nothing about football to review the VAR decision in slow motion... that handball simply doesn't exist!
"How do you handball behind your back? Ahh.. go f#@$ yourselves."
The 27-year-old Brazilian, since joining the Parisian club has never gone past the round of 16. Last year it was Real Madrid, and this time it was Manchester United. The former Barcelona star joined Paris Saint Germain to win the Ballon d'Or but has been plagued with injuries in the most crucial months of the season.
Neymar had every right to be frustrated as his teammates let him down once again. Neymar's angry rant on Instagram has seen Thomas Tuchel defend him as he stated, "of course it's a strong reaction, he was at the field. Sometimes after a big fight, you use words and react emotionally that you take back some hours later."
"He wanted to come back with us in the quarter-finals and he's been biting his nails at every game we've played, so don't be too hard with him. I wouldn't over-interpret the use of his words. In the heat of the moment, it's quickly typed into a smartphone."
What's next?
Neymar was expected to make a comeback in April and was targeting the quarterfinals of the Champions League. The Brazilian was hoping to go far in the UCL this year but results last night squandered his plans. It was frustrating for him to watch his team go down like this and all he could do was just sit and watch.
With the French league title pretty much wrapped up and in the bag, it will be a summer of contemplation for the Brazilian superstar.