Brazil striker Neymar suffered a serious-looking left knee injury during his national team’s 2-0 loss at Uruguay in a World Cup qualifier. Uruguay’s goals came on a header by Darwin Núnez in the 42nd minute on Tuesday night and a close-range finish by Nicolás de la Cruz in the 77th. It was Brazil’s first defeat in 37 matches of World Cup qualifying.
Neymar, a 31-year-old making his 128th appearance for Brazil, left the field in tears after being surrounded by players from both teams. With and without Neymar, Brazil had its worst performance under new coach Fernando Diniz, who will remain in the job at least until next year’s Copa America.
“In the short run we need to be realistic, we need to improve,” Brazil captain Casemiro said.